Following their narrow failure to qualify for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has announced a strategic plan to rebuild the national men’s 15s team, the Simbas.

The approach centers on blending experienced players with emerging talent from the Kenya Under-20 squad, known as Chipu, who recently secured the 2026 Barthés Trophy by defeating Namibia 33–14 in Uganda.

World Cup Qualification Disappointment

Kenya’s hopes were dashed at the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda after a close 29–23 semi-final loss to eventual champions Zimbabwe, followed by a 15–5 defeat to Algeria in the third-place playoff, finishing fourth overall. Zimbabwe clinched Africa’s direct qualification spot for the expanded 24-team World Cup by edging Namibia 30–28 in the final.

Rebuilding Strategy

At a press briefing held at Kasarani Sports Complex, KRU CEO Thomas Odundo emphasized the union’s commitment to addressing the weaknesses exposed during the qualification campaign. He highlighted plans to keep players active through high-intensity international friendlies and focus on preparing a competitive squad for the next qualification cycle.

KRU Vice-Chairman Moses Ndale outlined a blueprint to create a seamless progression from Chipu to the Simbas. The involvement of Chipu’s head coach Simon Jawich and programme head Carlos Katywa in the U20 campaign was part of ensuring consistent training philosophies and systems across both teams.

Corporate Support Boost

In a boost to the rebuilding efforts, KRU secured a Ksh2.5 million sponsorship deal with Haco Industries through its Amara brand to support Simbas’ training and local travel. Ndale praised Amara for its continued partnership over the past three years, highlighting the importance of corporate backing for sustainable sports development.

Marketing Director Catherine Obwino explained that Amara increased its funding from Ksh1.5 million two years ago to Ksh2.5 million this year, also providing in-kind supplies such as shower gel and lotion to support the players’ needs during rigorous training.

Obwino added that Amara will extend support to rugby clubs participating in six rugby sevens tournaments, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to growing the sport regionally.

Players’ Perspective

Simbas captain Samuel Asati expressed gratitude for the early corporate support, noting it motivates the team to perform at their best. He also praised the Chipu squad’s Barthés Trophy success, describing it as a promising sign for Kenyan rugby’s future.

“Seeing the U20s play such exciting rugby is thrilling and shows that Kenyan rugby has a bright future ahead,” Asati remarked.