Nairobi attracts continental rugby tournament after CHAN success
Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, will host the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens Cup, a continental showpiece that will bring together elite rugby sides in the ladies’ category.
Confirming the news on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) said the tournament will be staged at the historic RFUEA Grounds from November 14 to 17, 2025.
In a statement, the Union noted that further information, including ticket prices and matchday logistics, will be shared in the coming weeks.

”Mark your calendars, brethren. More rugby action will be coming to the capital as we host the 2025 Rugby Africa women’s sevens cup at the RFUEA GROUNDS from the 14th to the 17th of November. Ticket prices and more details to follow.,” KRU said in a statement.
The announcement marks another major milestone for women’s rugby in Kenya as the sport continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness across the region. For the national women’s team, the Lionesses, the tournament offers an opportunity to shine on home soil.
Hosting World Rugby Sevens Series Division Two
Elsewhere, the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has formally applied to host a leg of the World Rugby Sevens Series Division Two, a step that could bring the global rugby festival to Nairobi for the first time.
If the application succeeds, it would be an achievement for the country’s rugby scene, breathing new life into the sport and raising Kenya’s profile on the international stage.
This comes after World Rugby unveiled a new three-tier sevens competition structure, which will be implemented at the close of the 2025 season. Both Kenya’s men’s side, Shujaa, and the women’s team, the Lionesses, have already qualified for Division Two. Shujaa secured their spot after a decisive 24-5 victory over Canada, while the Lionesses booked their place with a dramatic 17-14 win against South Africa.

The Nyayo National Stadium, refurbished ahead of the 2024 CHAN tournament that staged Group A matches of the just concluded tournament, has been fronted as the likely venue. Its central location, modern upgrades, and track record in hosting major fixtures make it a strong candidate.
World Rugby has already confirmed Division One host nations, including Dubai, Cape Town, Singapore, Australia, Vancouver, and the USA, but left the Division Two slots open for bidding.
Should Nairobi be selected, Kenya would join the ranks of nations trusted to organise major rugby events, with benefits extending beyond sport. The tournament could boost tourism, elevate Nairobi’s reputation as a sporting hub, and inspire a new generation of athletes.
For Shujaa and the Lionesses, playing in front of home fans could provide the extra push they need as they aim to climb back to rugby’s top tier.














