Nairobi Hosts Successful HSBC SVNS 2 as Rugby Africa Hails Kenya’s Global Readiness
More than 15,000 fans turned up at Nyayo National Stadium over the weekend as Nairobi hosted the opening leg of the HSBC SVNS 2 series, drawing praise from continental rugby leaders and government officials.
The two-day tournament, held from 14–15 February 2026, featured 12 men’s and women’s international teams battling for promotion back to the revamped HSBC SVNS series. The event marked another milestone in Africa’s growing presence within global rugby competitions.
President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, lauded Kenya for staging what he described as a world-class tournament. Mensah, who also sits on the Executive Board of World Rugby, said the event demonstrated Africa’s readiness to host premier global competitions.
“Kenya has proven that it can host the world,” Mensah said after the tournament. “The organization, the energy in the stadium, the government support—this is a blueprint for Africa. When Africa hosts, Africa delivers.”
The Nairobi leg attracted key dignitaries, including Cabinet Secretary for Youth Affairs, Creative Economy and Sports, Salim Mvurya, underscoring government backing for the sport. Organizers said the vibrant atmosphere and smooth execution reinforced Kenya’s reputation as one of Africa’s leading rugby nations.
On the pitch, Kenya’s national men’s team, Kenya national rugby sevens team, popularly known as Shujaa, delivered a strong performance, finishing third to claim bronze and 16 points in the standings. Germany topped the table with 20 points, followed by the United States on 18.
Mensah described the sold-out spectacle as a powerful statement for the continent. “When 15,000 people come to celebrate the sport, when leaders of government stand behind it, when young boys and girls see themselves on that stage, you are building something far greater than a tournament. You are building belief,” he said.
The HSBC SVNS 2 series forms part of a restructured global pathway system, with tournaments staged across multiple continents. Nairobi’s successful hosting of the opening leg sets the tone as the series heads next to Montevideo and São Paulo.
Rugby Africa says the event aligns with its broader vision of positioning the continent as a prime destination for international rugby, highlighting Africa’s commercial appeal, passionate fan base and growing organizational capacity on the world stage.