The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has confirmed the participation of four sides ahead of the 2025 Safari 7s, scheduled for October 10–12 at the Nyayo National Stadium.

Among the early confirmations are the UK Sevens Select side, the French Renegades, Tunisia women’s team, and Zambia men’s team. The inclusion of these sides signals a competitive line-up as the prestigious event prepares to return to Nyayo after three years.

This will be the 27th edition of the Safari 7s, one of Africa’s most iconic rugby tournaments, bringing together top men’s, women’s, and age-grade teams from across the globe to compete for the coveted Robin Cahill Trophy.

Nyayo has previously hosted the competition in 2011, 2012, and 2021, with Shujaa lifting the title the last time it was staged there, beating Germany in a pulsating final.

Defending champions Shujaa will once again headline the men’s draw, chasing a fourth straight title after completing a rare three-peat last year in Machakos, where they defeated Shogun Rugby 12-0 in the final.

Kenya’s development side, the Morans, also impressed, sealing third place with a 26-5 victory over Zimbabwe Cheetahs.

For Zambia, the 2025 Safari 7s will mark a return to the fold after last appearing in 2019, having missed the last three editions. On the women’s side, Tunisia are set to feature, while Costa Blanca Ladies of Spain, last year’s winners are expected to return as the reigning champions.

The event has rotated across different venues in recent years RFUEA Grounds in 2023 and Machakos Stadium in 2024 but its return to Nyayo is expected to reignite memories of past electrifying tournaments and draw large crowds.

This year’s edition promises to be bigger and better, with more international teams expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks as Nairobi readies itself for another world-class rugby festival.