Zambezi 7s Rugby Challenge Turns Five, Celebrates Growth and Inclusion
THE Zambezi 7s Challenge Tournament will return to Harare Sports Club from 8 to 9 November, with organisers promising a bigger, more competitive and inclusive edition as top rugby teams from across Africa and beyond converge for the fifth staging.
Organised by Zambezi Lager, part of Delta Beverages, the tournament has grown steadily since its launch in 2021 and is now one of the major fixtures on the regional rugby calendar. This year’s competition will, for the first time, feature Kenya, who join previous participants from Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Germany.
Zimbabwe’s national Sevens side, the Zambezi Cheetahs, will be aiming for a third consecutive title after winning in 2023 and 2024. They will face strong opposition from the Kenyan and Zambian national teams as well as top-performing local clubs such as Mutare Sports Club, Old Miltonians from Bulawayo, Old Georgians, Old Hararians, the Pitbulls and the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
The women’s tournament has also expanded, with teams from Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana set to compete, marking another step towards making the competition more inclusive and representative of regional talent.
A total of US$14,500 has been set aside as prize money, with US$5,000 each going to the men’s and women’s champions. Runners-up in both categories will receive US$1,500, while plate winners and the most valuable players from the international men’s and women’s teams will each receive US$500.
Germany won the tournament in 2022, while the Botswana Spartans took the inaugural title in 2021. Organisers say the continued growth of the event reflects rising interest in rugby, stronger community involvement and growing support for women’s sport.
