The 2026 National Sevens Circuit will kick off with the Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru on July 25–26.
From there, teams will head west to the lakeside city of Kisumu for the Dala Sevens, scheduled for August 1–2, as the action continues to spread across the country.
Following a one-week break, the circuit will resume on August 15–16 with the George Mwangi Memorial Kabeberi Sevens before shifting to the Coast for the Driftwood Sevens in Mombasa on August 22–23.
Another short break will precede the final leg, which begins with the Embu Sevens on September 5–6. The series will then conclude in Nairobi with the iconic Christie Sevens on September 12–13.
The tournament will mark its 60th edition, bringing down the curtain on what is expected to be a memorable sevens season.
Kenya Rugby Union Chief Executive Officer Thomas Odundo said the early release of the dates will give host clubs ample time to prepare and secure sponsorship.
“This is the second year running we have opted to announce the dates early so that clubs can start preparations in good time and organise successful tournaments,” said Odundo.
He added that the early announcement also allows sufficient time to market and popularise the series. “The early dates give us five months to source sponsorship for the series and at the same time promote it as a platform where new talent can emerge and earn a chance to play for the national team,” he noted.
The circuit will culminate with the Safari Sevens, whose dates will be announced later.
KCB RFC are the defending champions, having won the crown with 126 points last season. Their coach, Andrew Amonde, said the team will be ready to defend the title.
“Yes, we are ready for the title defence. At the moment, we are focusing on the 15s season calendar, but when the time comes, we will be ready,” said Amonde.
Elsewhere, Championship side South Coast Pirates have strengthened their squad by signing former Kenya Under-20 international Iddo Kuta from Harlequin FC.
They have also secured the services of highly rated fly-half Cyprian Ombaso from Nakuru RFC. Ombaso enjoyed a stellar season with Nakuru and will be looking to inspire the Mombasa-based outfit as they push for an immediate return to the Kenya Cup following relegation last season.
by WILLIAM NJUGUNA
