Safaricom has committed Ksh 2 million to the 2026 Safari 7s, a three-day rugby tournament set to take place at Nyayo National Stadium from October 9 to 11. The sponsorship will enable the company to enhance connectivity across the stadium, allowing fans to share and follow the action seamlessly. Thousands of rugby fans are expected to converge at the stadium for the event.
The support from Safaricom will also see the company bring its digital, payment, and customer service propositions closer to fans and businesses during the tournament. Dedicated connectivity will support the live broadcast of the tournament, ensuring that fans can follow the action in real-time. This move is part of Safaricom's efforts to use technology and connectivity to enhance the experience for fans, athletes, and organizers.
According to Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa, the company is committed to using technology, connectivity, and digital services to enhance the experience for fans, athletes, and organizers. He expressed his support for Kenya's national Sevens teams, Shujaa and the Lionesses, as they defend their titles. The sponsorship builds on Safaricom's two-year partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), valued at more than Ksh 100 million.
The partnership between Safaricom and KRU provides player and official monthly allowances, comprehensive medical insurance, airtime allowances, and financial literacy programs. KRU Chairperson Harriet Okach expressed gratitude to Safaricom for its continued collaboration and commitment to supporting the growth of rugby in Kenya. She emphasized that the investment in connectivity will help fans stay connected and follow the action.
Safaricom will also bring its digital and financial services closer to fans throughout the tournament. Through My OneApp, fans will be able to access matchday tickets via the Tikohub MiniApp, as well as streaming bundles to follow the action. Visitors will also be able to use M-PESA GlobalPay as a convenient payment option during the tournament.
The 28th edition of Safari 7s will feature 18 teams competing across the men's and women's categories, with defending champions Kenya Shujaa and Kenya Lionesses returning to defend their titles. The men's competition will feature Kenya Shujaa, Kenya Morans, and a mix of international and invitational sides, while the women's competition will feature Kenya Lionesses, Kenya Cubs, Shibli, and teams from Uganda, Tunisia, and Spain.
The sponsorship and support from Safaricom are expected to make a meaningful difference in the experience of fans and the growth of rugby in Kenya. With enhanced connectivity and digital services, fans will be able to follow the action seamlessly and engage with the tournament in a more immersive way. The event is set to take place from October 9 to 11 at Nyayo National Stadium.
Key points
- Safaricom commits Ksh 2 million to the 2026 Safari 7s to enhance connectivity and bring digital services closer to fans.
- The sponsorship builds on Safaricom's two-year partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), valued at more than Ksh 100 million.
- The 28th edition of Safari 7s will feature 18 teams competing across the men's and women's categories.
