Fever pitch as Driftwood 7s lights up Mombasa

Mombasa is ready to host the 36th edition of the Driftwood 7s this weekend as Kenya’s top sevens sides converge at Mombasa Sports Club for the fourth leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit.

The two-day tournament, set for August 22–23, brings together 36 teams, with 16 sides competing in Division One and 20 in Division Two, as the race for national circuit points intensifies.

KCB Rugby Club head to the Coast as the team to beat after retaining the Kabeberi 7s title for a record fifth time. The bankers will be looking to maintain their strong run and extend their advantage at the top of the circuit standings.

KCB have been drawn in Pool B alongside KU Blak Blad, Kisumu RFC and Uganda Emerging 7s, whose participation adds an international flavour to this year’s competition.

Pool A presents another heavyweight battle, with Kenya Harlequin, Kabras Sugar, Nondescripts and hosts Mombasa RFC drawn together.

Kabras will be hoping to bounce back after a disappointing Kabeberi 7s outing, while Harlequin will be targeting another deep run after showing consistency in the opening legs.

Dala 7s runners-up Menengai Oilers headline Pool C alongside Daystar Falcons, Nakuru RFC and Kilifi RFC, setting up an interesting battle for the two qualification slots.

Pool D could provide some of the weekend’s most entertaining encounters, with Strathmore Leos, Mwamba RFC, MMUST and Kabeberi Division Two winners NYS Spades going head-to-head.

The opening day will feature three rounds of pool matches, with the knockout stages scheduled for Sunday. Teams will be fighting not only for the Driftwood title but also valuable points as the circuit heads towards the final legs in Embu and Nairobi.

Beyond the rugby, organizers are promising a festival atmosphere, with entertainment expected to complement the action on the pitch.

Listen Media CEO and Mombasa RFC Commercial Director Teddy Ndemo says the tournament has received a major boost through the partnership with Tusker.

“We are delighted to have Tusker on board for this year’s Driftwood Sevens. Their KSh1.5 million sponsorship is a significant boost to the tournament and will support us in delivering a strong competition for the teams and an enjoyable experience for our fans,” Ndemo said.

The sponsorship will also support the tournament’s entertainment package, with the Tusker Na Rugby activation and official after-party among the attractions lined up for fans.

With defending champions KCB seeking another title, Kabras aiming for redemption, Oilers chasing their first circuit triumph and several sides fighting for crucial points, the 36th Driftwood 7s promises two days of high-intensity rugby and coastal entertainment.