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Mwangi commits to security as Nairobi hosts historic HSBC Sevens Division 2 tournament
11th February, 2026 03:25 PM
Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has committed to security ahead of the prestigious HSBC Sevens Division 2 Nairobi leg, set for Saturday, February 14 and Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the Nyayo National Stadium.
Speaking during the official media launch of the tournament in Nairobi on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, Mwangi also said the event marks a historic milestone for the country, noting that Kenya is the first nation outside South Africa to host the globally acclaimed rugby spectacle.
He also assured the public that traffic management measures around Nyayo National Stadium have been carefully planned to facilitate smooth access and ensure the safety of fans.
Security and traffic
”Security and traffic control on roads near Nyayo National Stadium have been adequately addressed to cater for the huge crowds of fans accessing the stadium,” Mwangi, who represented Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, at the launch, said.
“This event is top honours for us. Kenya is the first Country outside South Africa to ever host this prestigious tournament,” he added.
Already, 12 elite international teams, six men’s and six women’s sides, from 11 countries have arrived in Nairobi, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling weekend of high-octane rugby.
In the women’s category, Kenya’s Lionesses will battle Brazil, South Africa, China, Argentina and Spain, while the men’s competition will feature Kenya’s Shujaa, alongside teams from Germany, the United States, Uruguay, Canada and Belgium.
The tournament has generated massive excitement among Kenyan fans, with all tickets sold out days before kickoff. According to Mwangi, the sold-out status is a testament to the country’s deep passion for rugby and sports in general.
“All tickets to this international rugby tournament are already sold out, a clear demonstration of the excitement and massive appetite Kenyans have for this event,” he said.
To ensure that no fan misses out, Mwangi confirmed that adequate arrangements have been made for live television coverage to reach audiences across the country.
”To ensure maximum reach for Kenya’s rugby fans whose undying passion for sports is legendary, adequate plans are in place to have all those who missed out on the tickets follow the action live on TV,” the PS said.
Tournament’s significance
The hosting of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Division 2 Nairobi Leg further cements Kenya’s reputation as a reliable destination for international sporting events, boosting its profile as a regional hub for sports tourism and global competition.
Mwangi rallied Kenyans to turn up in large numbers, both physically and virtually, to support the national teams.
“As always, let us cheer, support and celebrate Kenya Sevens Shujaa and the Lionesses in truly Kenyan style as they strive for global glory. We can do this. We are Kenya,” he concluded.
