SportPesa has more than doubled its investment in Kenyan rugby, unveiling a record Sh34.14 million sponsorship package for the 2026 SportPesa National Sevens Circuit.
The enhanced sponsorship, up from Sh16.5 million last year, marks the fourth consecutive year that SportPesa has been the title sponsor of the country’s premier club rugby sevens competition, underlining its commitment to developing talent and strengthening Kenya’s rugby ecosystem.
Of the total package, Sh16.14 million will go directly into the competition’s infrastructure, supporting host clubs, the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), and prize money across all six legs of the circuit.
The remaining funds will be invested in fan engagement initiatives, including improved broadcast production, live streaming, and matchday experiences.
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Speaking during the announcement, SportPesa Public Relations and Advertising Manager Willis Ojwang described the National Sevens Circuit as the backbone of Kenyan rugby development.
“The National Sevens Circuit is the heartbeat of Kenyan rugby and the foundation upon which future national stars are built. We have watched this competition produce players who went on to become Africa 7s champions, represent Kenya at the Olympic Games, and elevate our standing on the global stage,” said Ojwang.
Under the sponsorship arrangement, each of the six host clubs will receive Sh1 million, while Sh6 million has been allocated to the KRU Secretariat to support tournament organisation and administration. A further Sh9 million will go towards content production and live streaming, with fan engagement activities and merchandise receiving KSh9 million and Sh2 million respectively.
KRU Chairperson Harriet Okatch said the increased investment would strengthen player development pathways and boost the growth of the game.
“Year after year, our partnership with SportPesa has given clubs the resources to organise this circuit, given players a stage to perform, and given our national selectors a bottomless talent pool to draw from. The increased investment this season gives us even greater confidence as we continue building sustainable pathways for both Shujaa and the Lionesses,” she said.
Over the years, the circuit has established itself as a key feeder competition for Kenya’s national teams, with many players progressing to represent the country through the men’s sevens side, Shujaa, the women’s team, Kenya Lionesses, and the national 15s programmes.
The 2026 circuit will run from July 25 to September 13, beginning with the iconic Prinsloo 7s in Nakuru and culminating with Christie 7s. Defending champions KCB Rugby will be chasing a sixth overall title after a dominant 2025 campaign in which they amassed a record 126 points and won four of the six legs.
However, they are expected to face fierce competition from Strathmore Leos, who handed KCB defeats at the Prinsloo and Embu legs last season, as well as traditional powerhouses Kabras Sugar Rugby Club, Menengai Oilers, and Kenya Harlequin.
The increased sponsorship is expected to raise the profile of the National Sevens Circuit further and reinforce its role as the country’s principal breeding ground for future rugby stars.
