Two more countries set to join Enterprise Cup ahead of 2027 edition

The Enterprise Cup is on course for another major expansion, with Rwanda and Burundi set to join the competition in 2027 as the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) continues its push to transform the tournament into East Africa's premier club rugby championship.

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The move follows the successful introduction of Ugandan clubs in the 2026 edition.

According to KRU director of leagues and competitions Leslie Mwangale, the development has validated the union's vision for regional competition.

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Mwangale said the positive reception to the inaugural Kenya-Uganda crossover format had opened the door for more neighbouring countries to express interest.

"The response after bringing Uganda on board has been very encouraging. It showed us there's a genuine appetite for a regional competition, and that's why we're now engaging Rwanda and Burundi as the next step in that journey," Mwangale said.

The union is currently ironing out logistical details, including determining the hosting arrangements for the expanded 2027 tournament.

According to Mwangale, exposing clubs to stronger opposition from across the region is one of the quickest ways to accelerate rugby development.

"When teams are consistently challenged by different styles of play and higher levels of competition, the overall standard of rugby naturally improves. That's the direction we want East African rugby to take," he explained.

The KRU official pointed to established international competitions such as the European Champions Cup and Super Rugby as examples of how cross-border tournaments have helped elevate club rugby in other parts of the world.

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He revealed that the union's ambitions extend beyond East Africa, with Zimbabwe and Zambia also being considered for future editions because of their strong rugby pedigree.

"Countries like Zimbabwe and Zambia have rich rugby traditions. Bringing them into the Enterprise Cup in the future would not only make the tournament more competitive but also more attractive for fans and commercial partners," he said.

Alongside the planned expansion, the KRU is also pursuing a title sponsor to support the growth of the region's oldest rugby competition.

Mwangale said discussions with potential partners are ongoing, with the union keen to secure a sponsorship package that benefits both the competition and the sponsor.

"As the tournament grows, it creates greater commercial value. We're looking for partners who believe in that vision and want to grow with us," he added.

The full structure and list of participating teams for the 2027 edition will be unveiled once consultations with the respective unions are concluded.

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The 2026 Enterprise Cup featured Kenyan heavyweights Kabras RFC, KCB RFC, Nondescripts, and Menengai Oilers alongside Ugandan clubs Pirates, Heathens, Kobs, and Buffaloes.

Kabras successfully defended their title by defeating Uganda's Pirates 25-12 in the final at the RFUEA Grounds. The Kakamega-based side has now lifted six consecutive Enterprise Cup trophies, extending a remarkable dominance that began in 2019.