Tusker Commits KSh 40 Million to Propel Historic 2026 HSBC SVNS2 Rugby Event in Nairobi

Sports Updated: 23 January 2026 14:38 EAT

Kenya’s stature on the global rugby sevens stage has been significantly elevated after Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL), through its flagship brand Tusker, pledged KSh 40 million in support of the first-ever leg of the 2026 HSBC SVNS2 tournament.

The announcement comes just weeks ahead of the highly anticipated competition scheduled for February 14–15 at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, where the nation will welcome elite rugby teams from around the world on home soil.

The sponsorship package has been strategically allocated to ensure the seamless staging of the event. KSh 20 million has been earmarked for operational and logistical support to the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), while KSh 12 million will enhance fan and experiential engagement. An additional KSh 8 million will be dedicated to marketing and publicity, extending the tournament’s reach both locally and internationally.

Over two days, twelve teams will compete across both the men’s and women’s divisions. Kenya’s national sides, Shujaa and the Kenya Lionesses, will headline the action as they begin their journey toward qualification for the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. Competing in front of a passionate home crowd adds both expectation and motivation for the national teams.

At the official launch event hosted at the EABL headquarters, Christine Kariuki, Head of Mainstream Beer at Tusker, emphasised the cultural and unifying power of the sport. “Rugby has long held a special place in uniting Kenyans across generations and communities,” she said, noting the significance of hosting an event of this scale in Nairobi. “Tusker believes in moments that bring people together and allow them to stand tall, and this is one such historic occasion the brand is proud to support.”

Kenya Rugby Union chairperson Harriet Okach expressed deep appreciation for Tusker’s ongoing commitment to the sport. She highlighted the long-standing partnership between KBL and Kenyan rugby, stressing the importance of strong corporate support in enhancing both the operational delivery and the fan experience of the tournament.

With this corporate backing secured and an exciting international field confirmed, Nairobi is poised to deliver a memorable and world-class rugby sevens spectacle that will resonate with fans at home and across the global rugby community.