It’s been a long time coming.
After years of heartbreak, rebuilding, and fighting to stay relevant on the world stage, Kenya’s national rugby sevens team—Shujaa—made a thunderous return to the spotlight, reaching the 2025 Singapore Sevens final for the first time since 2018. And though the final ended in a 21-12 defeat to Fiji, the story is not about the loss—it’s about the journey.
Because for Shujaa, this was more than a tournament. It was a statement.
Back Where It All Began
Singapore has always held a special place in Kenya’s rugby folklore. It was there, back in 2016, under the late Benjamin Ayimba, that Shujaa stunned the world by dismantling Fiji 30-7 to claim their first—and only—World Rugby Sevens Series title.
Fast forward 3,276 days, and once again, in the heart of Southeast Asia, the Kenyan flag flew high. This time, with a new generation of players, a different coaching staff, and a team that had clawed its way back from the brink.
The Build-Up: Signs of Fire Returning
Under coach Kevin Wambua, Shujaa have spent the past year piecing themselves back together. Relegated from the core World Series circuit in 2023, Kenya were no longer in the global rugby spotlight. They were on the outside looking in, fighting for redemption.
And in Singapore, something clicked.
From the opening match, there was a sharpness, a hunger. Shujaa started strong, stunning Ireland, then silencing France to reach their first semifinal of the season. It was their best run in recent memory, and it was built not just on flair, but on structure and belief—qualities that had often eluded the team during their turbulent years.
Semifinal vs Spain: Odongo’s Brilliance, Team Grit
In the semifinal showdown against Spain, it was Patrick Odongo who lit the fire. Just two minutes in, he sliced through Spain’s defense with a dazzling solo run, reminding fans of the classic Kenyan explosiveness that defined their golden era. Then, following a Spanish red card, Odongo added a second—this time capitalizing on a cleverly executed scrum.
At 12-0, Kenya looked in control. Spain did manage to pull one back, but Kenya’s defense stood tall. In the final seconds, as Jone Kubu booted the ball into touch to seal the 12-5 win, the Kenyan bench erupted. It wasn’t just a victory—it was a vindication.
For the first time since 2018, Kenya had reached a World Series final.
The Final: A Familiar Foe, A Familiar Dream
Fittingly, standing in their way was Fiji—the same side they had crushed in that magical 2016 final. And for a moment, it felt like history might repeat itself.
Late in the first half, Kenya took a 7-0 lead thanks to a moment of brilliance. Vincent Onyala kicked cleverly behind Fiji’s defense, and Nygel Amaitsa chased it down, touching down and converting his own try. Kenya were flying, and fans dared to dream again.
But rugby is a game of two halves, and Fiji came back roaring. Their famed offload game clicked, and Vuiviwa Naduvalo and Rauto Vakadranu scored three quick tries. The momentum flipped, and suddenly, Kenya were chasing shadows.
Despite a late try by William Mwanji, the deficit was too big. The final whistle confirmed a 21-12 defeat—and a 14th straight loss to Fiji since 2018.
A Loss… But a Triumph in Spirit
Yet, as Shujaa gathered after the final, heads weren’t hanging in shame—they were raised in pride. Because while they didn’t lift the trophy, they had reclaimed their place among the best.
This final wasn’t about silverware. It was about resilience, identity, and hope. It was about proving that Kenya can still compete at the highest level, even after setbacks, changes in leadership, and being written off by many.
Shujaa reminded the world of the magic they possess—and they did it with a squad full of fresh faces and a few battle-hardened leaders.
Looking Ahead: Promotion Play-Offs in May
With the Singapore run now behind them, Shujaa’s eyes are firmly set on the promotion-relegation playoffs in Los Angeles on May 3–4. It’s the next crucial step in their journey to regain full core status in the World Series.
If their form in Singapore is anything to go by, Kenya will arrive in Los Angeles with momentum, belief, and the entire nation behind them.
Because one thing is now clear—Shujaa are back. And this time, they’re not just trying to relive the past. They’re writing a new chapter—one match, one tournament, one miracle at a time.
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