Safaricom Invests KSh2M to Boost Safari 7s Fan Experience
Safaricom has committed KSh2 million to the 2026 Safari 7s as rugby fans prepare for three days of action at Nyayo National Stadium from October 9 to 11. The support, provided through M-PESA, will help improve connectivity at the stadium while giving fans and businesses access to Safaricom’s digital, payment and customer services during the tournament.
Safaricom will increase network capacity at the venue to allow fans to share updates, photos and videos and follow matches without disruptions. The company will also provide dedicated connectivity to support the tournament’s live broadcast.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa said the tournament provides an important opportunity to showcase Kenya’s sporting talent and bring rugby fans together.
“Safari 7s is an important platform for showcasing Kenya’s sporting talent and bringing fans together. Our support reflects Safaricom’s commitment to using technology, connectivity and digital services to enhance the experience for fans, athletes and organizers,” Ndegwa said. He also wished Kenya Shujaa and the Kenya Lionesses success as they return to defend their titles.
The sponsorship adds to Safaricom’s wider partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), a two-year deal worth more than KSh100 million. Through M-PESA, the partnership supports Kenya’s national Sevens teams, Shujaa and the Lionesses.
The deal provides players and officials with monthly allowances, medical insurance, airtime and financial literacy programmes. Safaricom has also continued to support women’s rugby through the partnership.
KRU Chairperson Harriet Okach welcomed Safaricom’s continued support, saying better connectivity would help fans stay connected while the company’s backing of women’s rugby was making a difference.
During the tournament, fans will also have access to Safaricom’s digital and financial services. Through My OneApp, they can access matchday tickets using the Tikohub MiniApp and purchase streaming bundles to follow the matches. Visitors will also be able to use M-PESA GlobalPay to make payments during the tournament. The 28th edition of Safari 7s will bring together 18 teams in the men’s and women’s competitions.
The men’s event will feature Kenya Shujaa, Kenya Morans and several international and invitational teams. The women’s competition will include Kenya Lionesses, Kenya Cubs, Shibli and teams from Uganda, Tunisia and Spain.
With the tournament running for three days, Safaricom’s investment is expected to give fans stronger connectivity while supporting the wider organization and broadcast of one of Kenya’s biggest rugby events.