Safaricom, through its M-PESA brand, has committed Sh10 million towards the upcoming HSBC SVNS2 Rugby Sevens tournament, with Kenya Lionesses captain Sheila Chajira hailing the event as a major moment for Kenyan rugby as the national teams chase promotion on home soil.

The two-day international rugby seven-a-side tournament will be held on February 14-15, 2026 at Nyayo National Stadium, bringing together six elite men’s and six women’s teams competing for promotion to HSBC SVNS Division 1. For Kenya’s Shujaa and the Lionesses, the event represents a crucial step in their push for promotion to the top tier of the global sevens circuit.

As the official technology partner, Safaricom will play a central role in the delivery of the tournament, providing a fully equipped, world-class media centre, reliable internet connectivity across key operational areas, and communication support through devices and airtime to ensure smooth coordination and global coverage. The partnership underscores Safaricom’s growing footprint in international sports events hosted in Kenya.

Announcing the sponsorship in Nairobi on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa praised the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) for securing the hosting rights and reaffirmed the company’s long-standing support for rugby.

He noted that Safaricom’s involvement goes beyond branding, focusing on practical support that benefits players, fans and the media. Through Safaricom Money Transfer Services Limited, the company has prioritised timely payment of salaries and allowances for Shujaa and the Kenya Lionesses, while also investing in fan connectivity and professional media coverage.

Safaricom’s M-PESA App will also enhance the fan experience during the tournament, with exclusive discounts available from February 14-16. 

Customers spending Sh5,000 on flight and cab bookings will receive a 25 percent discount, while those spending Sh1,500 on bus bookings will also enjoy 25 percent off. Younger users spending Sh250 will receive Sh100 back on their trips, making travel to and from the stadium more accessible.

The SVNS2 announcement builds on Safaricom’s wider commitment to Kenyan rugby. M-PESA is the official sponsor of the national sevens teams under a two-year partnership with KRU valued at over Sh100 million. The deal supports monthly allowances for players and officials, comprehensive medical insurance, airtime provisions, and financial literacy programmes, aimed at strengthening player welfare and long-term sustainability.

On the pitch, the tournament will feature 12 teams across the men’s and women’s competitions. In the men’s category, Kenya will face the USA, Uruguay, Germany, Belgium and Canada. The women’s competition will include Kenya, Brazil, Spain, China, South Africa and Argentina, setting up a highly competitive weekend of rugby sevens.

Kenya Lionesses captain Sheila Chajira said the opportunity to compete at home carries special significance for the players. She noted that the backing from sponsors and fans has been instrumental in motivating the team as they target promotion. With Nyayo National Stadium expected to host a passionate home crowd, the Lionesses and Shujaa will be aiming to convert support into results.

The HSBC SVNS2 tournament forms part of the global HSBC SVNS series, known for its fast-paced, high-intensity rugby sevens action.