Uganda Emerging 7s to headline 2026 Driftwood 7s in Mombasa

The tournament has received a major boost with Uganda Emerging 7s confirmed as the official guest team, marking the first appearance by a Ugandan side at the Driftwood 7s in 13 years.

Mombasa Rugby Chairman Rodgers Lai says the tournament is expected to provide stiff competition while also creating a platform for developing rugby across the region.

“This year tournament promises three days of competitive rugby, youth development, international participation, entertainment and Mombasa culture. This time we have made sure that most of the teams that domicile in Mombasa are participating all the way from age grade to Division One, so we really want to build the sport within the region. That's our core business.”

Lai expects the competition to be particularly tough, with defending champions KCB Rugby entering the tournament in strong form after winning the most recent Kabeberi 7s leg.

“Defending champions KCB, who have just won the previous leg, which was Kabeberi, so we are looking forward to a stiff competition from all other teams going forward,” added Lai.

Lai also assured fans and participants of adequate security throughout the three-day tournament.

“We are working with a partner by the name Crime Shield, who will work closely with the Kenya Police and the County Government of Mombasa to ensure safety during the tournament. Mombasa Sports Club itself is a household name and the moment you land in this place your security is guaranteed.”

The tournament will also offer a bigger financial incentive this year after main sponsor SportPesa increased the prize money.

SportPesa representative Willis Ojwang said the total prize purse has been doubled compared to last year's edition.

“This year we have doubled our prize money from what was there last year. This year it will stand at a total of KSh 540,000, in addition to the extra support we are giving to Mombasa Rugby to be able to put together a successful tournament this year.”

Ojwang added that the inclusion of an international side from Uganda will further spice up the tournament.

“The key is that Driftwood has introduced an international team from Uganda, which also brings on board quite a bit of entertainment on the pitch,” added Ojwang.

The tournament got underway today (Friday) with age-grade competitions, while the Division One and Division Two action is scheduled to kick off on Saturday and run through Sunday.

Division One Pools

Pool A: Kenya Harlequin, Kabras Sugar, Nondescripts RFC, Mombasa Sports Club

Pool B: KCB Rugby, KU Blak Blad, Kisumu RFC, Uganda Emerging 7s

Pool C: Menengai Oilers, Daystar Falcons, Nakuru RFC, Kilifi RFC

Pool D: Strathmore Leos, Mwamba RFC, MMUST Rugby, NYS Spades

Division Two Pools

Pool A: Zetech Oaks, TUM Marines, Sigalagala NP, JKUAT Cougars

Pool B: Catholic Monks, South Coast Pirates, Malindi Turtles, Kabarak University

Pool C: Impala RFC, Jackals, Kaya Rugby, Northern Suburbs

Pool D: Stallions Rugby, KCNP, KCA University, Makueni Ravens

Pool E: Embu RFC, Shanzu Marlins, MKU Thika, Mean Machine