KCB Rugby were crowned champions of the 2026 Kabeberi 7s after edging Strathmore Leos 14-12 in a thrilling final played on Sunday, August 16, at the RFUEA Grounds.While KCB celebrated a fifth Kabeberi 7s title, the day carried even greater emotional significance for Strathmore Leos, who dedicated their historic run to flyhalf Hamza Muhaise, who passed away on Thursday. Download our Mozzart Sport App for more newsThe final appearance was a fitting tribute to their fallen teammate and marked several milestones for the university side. It was the Leos’ first final of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit and the first time a university team had progressed beyond the quarterfinal stage this season.For KCB, the victory completed a remarkable turnaround after their disappointing exit before the semifinals at the Dala 7s two weeks earlier.##NAJAVA_MECA_9894177##Before kickoff, a moment of silence was observed in memory of Muhaise, setting an emotional tone for the final.KCB made the brighter start, with George Ooro crossing for the opening try before Brian Wahinya added the conversion for a 7-0 lead.They doubled their advantage moments later when Vincent Onyala touched down, with Wahinya once again adding the extras to stretch the bankers’ lead to 14-0.The Leos responded strongly before the break. Kenya U20 coach reveals quality that sets Kabras youngster apart after Barthes Cup final heroicsGabriel Ayimba powered over for their first try, with Arnold Muita converting to reduce the deficit to 14-7.The university side then produced a flowing move featuring a series of crisp passes before Victor Mola releasing Ayimba for another try. Although the conversion drifted wide, the Leos went into halftime trailing by just two points at 14-12.The second half was a tense tactical battle, with both sides producing resolute defensive displays.Strathmore Leos thrown into mourning following death of playerStrathmore enjoyed sustained spells of possession but KCB repeatedly forced crucial turnovers to relieve the pressure. Play was briefly halted after Amon Wamalwa required medical attention, while the vibrant crowd remained fully engaged throughout the contest.The Leos continued to push for a match-winning score and looked dangerous through several phases, but a knock-on in the closing moments handed KCB a scrum. The Bankers calmly kicked the ball into touch after regaining possession to seal a hard-fought 14-12 victory.Elsewhere, Menengai Oilers claimed third place with a 20-17 victory over Kenya Harlequin.Kenya Sevens star Dennis Abukuse joins Canadian sideHosts Mwamba RFC secured fifth place after defeating Daystar Falcons 19-10.In the women’s competition, Mwamba Ladies retained the Kabeberi 7s title with a 12-7 victory over Kenya Harlequin, completing a hat-trick of circuit titles after also triumphing at the Prinsloo and Dala 7s.Impala Roans finished third after beating Pioneer Ladies 25-5.
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