Safaricom Sevens was successful despite Kenya’s failure to impress

Kenya Chairman’s Charles Odhiambo is tackled by Samurai’s Dama Joni during their Safari sevens tournament match at Kasarani stadium.PHOTO/DENNIS OKEYO

With the final whistle of the 19th edition of the Safaricom Rugby Sevens blown, Kenya Rugby Union and Safaricom are no doubt happy to have hosted a successful tournament despite Kenya’s Shujaa failure to retain the title.
Last year, the mood at the event was dampened by the shocking news of the West Gate Mall terror attack, but that did not prevent top class teams like Argentina, Western Province, Samurai and Welsh Warriors from gracing this year’s competition where Kenyan teams (Shujaa, Morans and Simba Saba) poor performance has been roundly criticized.
The Kasarani Stadium was a beehive of activity and did not only produce fireworks on the pitch but was a star attraction with thousands of fans, paying their way into the venue at the weekend where they were given value for their money.
During the breaks, rugby enthusiasts were treated to awesome music and live performances from Nameless, Wahu and Sauti Soul with comedian Eric Omondi emceeing the show.
And after the rugby action, Kriss Darlin and crew showed their prowess on the decks keeping revelers on the feet at the Safaricom Village.
With the quality of game, entertainment, organization and the large turn-out, Safaricom Limited, the official sponsors of the Africa’s Premier Rugby tournament described it as a big success.
“We showed that our people know how to have good interaction not only among ourselves but with the foreigners too. Safaricom Sevens is not just a tournament but makes rugby a game of fun and a social event,” said Rita Okuthe, Marketing Director Safaricom.
“Unlike the 2013 edition which was affected by the West Gate terror attack, We are proud of what we have seen this year. From the organization to fans turn out and quality of game, we have met our expectations. It’s just but a big success.”
KRU Chairman Mwangi Muthee insists the success hosting of the tournament and the National Sevens Circuit is a proof that Kenya can host an International Rugby Board series.
“We are happy that everything went as planned. With the great facilities and the organization in Safaricom Sevens and Circuit tournaments there is no doubt we can host an IRB series,” said Muthee.
“There is nothing impossible and there’s always something you can do a little bit better for the next tournament.”
And given the high-level of play on the field and lack of hitches in logistics for fans as they made their way to stadiums, fans are calling this one of the best Safaricom Sevens in decades.
“Yes, our teams didn’t make us proud, but considering the hype, competitiveness of the game, organization and entertainment, I think this is one of the best Safaricom tournament I have ever watched,” said a rugby fan.
“This was a world class rugby tournament and I have enjoyed my weekend,” added Sharon, another fan.