Morans Roar: Kenya’s Rugby Sevens Redemption Mission in Mauritius
The air in Mapou, Mauritius, is buzzing with anticipation as the 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Cup draws near. For Kenya’s second-string national rugby sevens team, the , this tournament isn’t just another competition; it’s a mission of redemption, a quest to reclaim the continental title, and a crucial stepping stone towards a brighter future in global sevens rugby.
A New Dawn: Blending Youth and Experience
Head Coach Louis Kisia has unveiled a formidable 12-man squad for the tournament, scheduled for June 21st and 22nd at the Labourdonnais Sports Club. What makes this squad particularly exciting is its strategic blend of raw, electrifying talent and hardened experience.
Four fresh faces are set to make their highly anticipated debut for the Morans:
- Javan Otieno (Nakuru RFC): A back with a keen eye for space and a burst of speed.
- Andrew Matoka: Former Kenya U20 captain, bringing leadership and a proven track record from the junior ranks.
- Phillip Okeyo: Ready to make his mark on the senior stage.
- Felix Okoth: Another promising talent poised to showcase his skills.
These debutants will undoubtedly inject fresh energy and unpredictability into the squad, keeping opponents on their toes. Their enthusiasm, combined with the guidance of returning players, creates a potent mix.
Leading the charge for the seasoned players is Chrisant Ojwang, back from injury after missing a significant portion of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series. His return is a major boost, bringing a wealth of experience and formidable presence on the field. Also returning are William Mwanji and Dennis Abukuse, who impressed with their Dubai debuts in 2024, alongside established names like Floyd Wabwire, Jackson Siketi, Brian Mutua, and Lameck Ambetsa. This core group provides the stability and tactical nous essential for success in high-stakes tournaments.
The Road to Redemption: Reclaiming African Supremacy
Kenya finds itself in a challenging Group A, alongside fierce rivals and defending champions Uganda, as well as Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. This opening phase promises intense battles, with every match crucial for building momentum.
Other competitive groups include:
- Group B: HSBC SVNS World Champions South Africa, Burkina Faso, Zambia, and Nigeria.
- Group C: Hosts Mauritius, battling it out with Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and Tunisia.
The memory of last year’s dismal showing, where Kenya finished a disappointing sixth in both legs of the 2024 edition, undoubtedly fuels the team’s determination. Having last lifted the African title in 2023, where they famously “smashed South Africa and qualified for the Olympics,” as Coach Kisia proudly recalls, the Morans are hungry to return to the pinnacle of African sevens rugby.
Higher Stakes: The Path to SVNS Division 3
Beyond the glory of the continental title, the 2025 Rugby Africa Men’s Sevens Cup carries added weight due to World Rugby’s newly introduced Sevens structure. The top two teams from this tournament will secure promotion to the SVNS Division 3. This is a significant incentive, offering a clear pathway for emerging nations to climb the global sevens ladder and compete at a higher level. For the Morans, this means every tackle, every pass, and every try brings them closer to re-establishing Kenya’s presence on the international sevens circuit.
Coach Kisia’s Vision: “We Want That Title Back!”
Coach Louis Kisia’s words resonate with unwavering confidence and a clear objective. “Here is always everything to play for when you take to the field. The boys always want to win and make a good name for themselves. If you go to the Africa Sevens and win it, then you become African champions,” he stated in a recent interview.
His emphasis on winning back the title underscores the team’s singular focus. The blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned professionalism in this squad, coupled with the clear promotion pathway, sets the stage for a compelling performance from Kenya morans. )
As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Mapou. Can the Kenya Morans harness their fresh talent and experienced core to reclaim their African crown and embark on their journey towards SVNS Division 3? The stage is set for a thrilling display of rugby sevens!
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