Diani set for tourism boost ahead of South Coast 5s Touch Rugby tourney

The three-day event has become an annual pilgrimage for rugby lovers all over the world to play a lighter version of the game in one of Kenya's most exotic destinations.

Diani's allure has always been its quaint luxury and exotic cultural experiences. But those who really know the area will always tell you of the sense of adventure, the love for good times, the close camaraderie, and the competitiveness that bubbles beneath Diani's surface— away from the prying eyes of visitors.

In essence, this encapsulates what the South Coast Fives is all about: adventure, ambition and high-adrenaline action.

Sports events often attract large numbers of participants and spectators alike.

Rugby in Kenya has a reputation for having some of the most hardcore fans, who travel all the country for any chance to catch a rugby tournament and have a good time.

For resort towns like Diani, still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, sports tournaments like the South Coast Fives are a breath of fresh air.

This year marks the 13th edition of the tournament and the growth has been nothing short of remarkable over the years.

Last year's tournament attracted over 2,000 guests, and with more numbers expected this year, Diani's tourism dependent economy is set to receive a much needed boost.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, Alliance Hotels Senior Sales and Marketing Manager, Suzanne Gathitu spoke of the need for destinations to diversify the experiences they offer visitors.

"We are trying to set the pace when it comes to organising and hosting sports events in the country," she explained. "The South Coast Fives offers an experience like no other for sports lovers, particularly rugby fans."

Her sentiments were echoed by Michael Mutua, who is the Kwale County Government CEC for Tourism, Trade, and Enterprise.

"Sports events trigger tourism development by creating economic opportunities especially in areas such as transportation and accommodation. Kwale County has the capacity to host international tournaments, and we are open to working with all stakeholders to explore this new frontier.

“Kwale County boasts some of the best locations for triathlon, cycling, skiing, and beach sports tournaments. We are blessed to have some of the best natural facilities for adventure sports in Africa. We are itching to tap into their potential and help grow our economy," Mutua explained.

This edition will also have an extra special feel to it as the South Coast Pirates RFC will be playing in their first tournament since their promotion from the Kenya Rugby Union's Championship to the top tier of Kenyan rugby.

Beyond being a sporting spectacle, the tournament also serves as a platform to help raise funds for some of South Coast Pirates RFC programs.

Last year, Nairobi County's Karen Crusaders together with a strong contingent of fans painted Diani black and white to emerge winners.

With the added pressure of impressing their home support, the South Coast Pirates will be eager to make sure the trophy does not leave Diani this time round.