Dinner with the Pride: Kenya Simbas Farewell Dinner
Yesternight, the Kenya Simbas were hosted to a heartfelt send-off dinner ahead of their departure to Uganda for the Rugby Africa Cup tournament. This competition also serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, making it a crucial assignment for the national 15s team.
The event brought together key stakeholders in the rugby fraternity, including Kenya Rugby Union Chairperson Harriet Okatch and members of the Board, representatives from the Ministry of Sports, and partners from the team’s sponsors.
Representing Amara Skincare, Assistant Brand Manager Sheila Mbeere conveyed the brand’s unwavering support. “Our team is in full support of the boys, and as you get to Uganda, you will receive a refreshing package from us,” she said. “We will be beyond happy when the team qualifies for the 2027 World Cup.”
Representing the Government, Abel Manyara reaffirmed the Ministry of Sports’ full support for the Simbas. “The Ministry stands firmly behind this team. Go out there and give your best — the nation is watching and cheering you on,” he said.
Coach Carlos Katywa expressed his confidence in the squad, noting that the 28 players selected are the best. “The high-performance camp in South Africa was tailored for this exact assignment. This group is not just ready, they are capable of taking Kenya to the 2027 World Cup,” he stated.
Team Captain George Nyambua extended gratitude to the sponsors and all supporters, saying, “This is the most thorough preparation we’ve had in recent times. The morale in camp was high, and the lads are ready to give it their all.”
Kenya Rugby Union CEO Thomas Odundo echoed similar sentiments, wishing the team success and expressing his strong belief that this squad has what it takes to return victorious and eventually book a spot at the global showpiece.
Several board members also shared their words of encouragement:
Director of Competitions, Leslie Mwangale encouraged the team to stay focused and bring the championship home.
Humphrey Kayange, former Simbas player and Director of the 7s Program, reminded the players that, “The tougher the preparation, the better the results. Believe in yourselves and carry the pride of the jersey.”
Director for National Squads, Moses Mukabane, praised the quality of the team, calling them “an above-average side that is more than capable of delivering in Uganda.”
Vice Chairperson Moses Ndale challenged the team to seize the moment: “This is the time to prove your worth. When you love what you do, excellence follows.”
In her closing remarks, Chairperson Harriet Okatch rallied the Simbas with a speech:
“You have trained. You have sacrificed. You’ve earned your stripes. Now is the time to play every game like it’s the final. Fight for every ball, for every inch, and leave nothing behind.”
She closed with an inspirational quote from Muhammad Ali:
“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision.”
Friends of Simbas; SOW Advocates LLP have stepped forward with a donation of Ksh 50,000, while Joe Onsando has also backed the boys with a personal contribution of Ksh 30,000.
The team will be facing our neighbour Uganda at 4:00 pm, EAT on Tuesday the 8th of July 2025.
Here is the ticketing information- https://x.com/mtnmomoug/status/1940664329604313539
