Kenya eyes hosting HSBC Division 1 rugby showpiece amid sports infrastructure upgrade
By Joel Masibo, June 6, 2026Sports Principal Secretary Elijah Mwangi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to hosting the HSBC Division 1 rugby tournament, transforming Kenya into a leading force in global rugby following high-level discussions with World Rugby President Brett Robinson.
The commitment comes at the moment when Kenya’s Shujaa is struggling to gain a firm footing at the ongoing Bordeaux 7s, after impressing at the HSBC SVNS 2 in Nairobi in February 2026.
Speaking on Saturday, June 6, 2026, after the meeting, Mwangi said the talks focused on strengthening cooperation between Kenya and World Rugby to accelerate the development of the sport while creating more opportunities for players, coaches, officials and supporters.
According to the PS, both parties shared a common vision of elevating Kenya’s standing in international rugby and using sport as a catalyst for economic growth, tourism promotion and youth empowerment.
Key discussion
A key issue discussed during the engagement was Kenya’s desire to host the prestigious HSBC Division 1 tournament, a move that would further cement the country’s reputation as a preferred destination for major international sporting events.
“One major area of our talks was Kenya’s ambition to host the prestigious HSBC Division 1 tournament; a major international event that would further reinforce our country’s status as a premier destination for global sporting competitions.” Mwangi shared via his official Facebook page.
The PS further noted that Kenya has built a strong track record in successfully organizing world-class competitions and remains determined to attract more global tournaments that showcase the nation’s sporting capabilities and renowned hospitality.
Mwangi attributed Kenya’s growing appeal as a host nation to ongoing investments in modern sports infrastructure. He highlighted the construction of the 60,000-seat Raila Odinga International Stadium in Talanta as a flagship project that demonstrates the country’s readiness to stage elite international competitions.
He said the state-of-the-art facility is designed to provide a world-class environment capable of hosting top-level rugby matches and other major global sporting events. The stadium, he added, reflects the government’s long-term commitment to creating opportunities for athletes while strengthening Kenya’s bid for prestigious international competitions.
“Our readiness is underpinned by significant investments in modern sports infrastructure as testified by the iconic 60,000-seater Raila Odinga International Stadium, Talanta; a legacy project designed to provide a world-class venue capable of hosting high-intensity international rugby matches and other major global events,” he added.
Mwangi also pointed to Kenya’s recent qualification for the HSBC SVNS Division 1 competition as evidence of the country’s growing influence in world rugby.
Meanwhile, Shujaa’s remarkable winning streak came to an end at the HSBC SVNS 2 tournament in Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday, February 15, 2026, finishing third after a heartbreaking 21–5 loss to the USA on home soil.