Kabeberi 7s marks 40 years of a fallen rock, as Mwamba chase long-awaited glory

Forty years have passed since the passing of George Mwangi Kabeberi, and the rugby tournament bearing his name returns for its 37th edition. Hosted by Mwamba RFC, affectionately known as Kulabu, the matches will be played on August 15-16 at the RFUEA Grounds. Kabeberi, a former player for the Nairobi-based club, passed away on July 10, 1986.

Originally founded in 1977 to promote rugby among indigenous Kenyans, the tournament has evolved into a significant fixture on Kenya's national sevens calendar, now part of the six-tournament SportPesa National Sevens Circuit. Mwamba RFC, one of the clubs that emerged during a period of racial divide in Kenyan rugby, has seen tremendous growth since Kabeberi's death, dominating the domestic scene and expanding the tournament to honor other departed club members.

For Mwamba RFC, this anniversary is particularly significant as they have not won the tournament since 2019, and will be relying on home support to claim the long-awaited title. The club's young squad, many of whom are currently on national duty representing Kenya's Under-20 side at the Rugby Africa Barthés Trophy in Kampala, Uganda, will be looking to capitalize on their continental exposure as they chase glory this weekend.