World Rugby is turning up the volume on Kenya, plotting a future in which the nation becomes a central hub for the sport across the continent. What began as tournament hosting interest has evolved into a strategic push to build lasting partnerships that will deepen participation, sharpen talent pathways, and fortify the entire rugby ecosystem in Kenya.
A Partnership with Purpose
Mark Honeybunn, Head of World Rugby Sevens Event Planning and Delivery, framed the federation’s ambitions in clear terms during a press briefing ahead of the World Rugby Sevens Division 2 tournament in Nairobi. He described a long-term collaboration with the Kenyan Rugby Union aimed at bringing more events to Kenyan soil and expanding the sport beyond elite fixtures.
“This is about building something that lasts,” Honeybunn said, stressing that the plan reaches far beyond marquee matches to touch grassroots clubs, schools, and community programmes.
From Grassroots to Global Stage
World Rugby’s approach is holistic. The federation plans to:
Grow participation by supporting school and community programmes.
Create structured talent pathways so promising players are identified early and developed systematically.
Strengthen technical capacity by training coaches, referees, and administrators.
Provide resources and expertise to local clubs to professionalise operations and competition standards.
The aim is to ensure that talent is not only discovered but also given the tools and opportunities to flourish on national and international stages.
Kenya as a Continental Anchor
By investing in Kenya, World Rugby hopes to position the country as a continental anchor for sevens and the broader game. Nairobi’s growing reputation as a sporting capital, combined with Kenya’s passionate fan base and emerging talent pool, makes it a natural focal point for development initiatives and future events.
Officials believe these long-term investments will boost participation at every level, create sustainable growth, and lay the groundwork for Kenya to host more international tournaments in the years ahead.
A New Chapter for Kenyan Rugby
World Rugby’s commitment signals a turning point. For players, coaches and communities across Kenya, the partnership promises more than funding and fixtures — it offers a blueprint for a thriving rugby culture built on opportunity, professionalism and local ownership.
With strategic support and a shared vision, Kenya is poised to become a driving force in African rugby, shaping the continent’s future on and off the pitch.
