‘Mit karumo,’ so the Luo say, means it gets sweeter at the end, and true to this sentiment, Dala 7s, the National 7s Circuit grand finale, to be held at Kisumu’s Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium on September 13th & 14th, promises to be the ‘sweetest’ yet.
The Rugby Thrill
The National 7s Circuit is Kenya’s premier rugby sevens competition, bringing together top clubs from across the country in a series of tournaments. Each leg not only earns teams points but also builds momentum toward the grand finale.
From the coastal city of Mombasa for the Driftwood 7s to the Midlands of Embu, to the home of Harlequins in the City under the Sun, the excitement has been palpable as rugby fans travelled around the country, not just to cheer on their favorite team, but ‘kupiga sherehe’, while doing it.
Beyond the Pitch
And Dala 7s is the crowning. Besides the main action in the field, two renowned acts are feted to perform in the afterparty, the first of its kind powered by TikoHUB: Saturday night will see Coster Ojwang take the stage. Known for his soulful fusion of folk and Luo roots, Coster has a way of turning performances into intimate spiritual sessions. His cult-like following often sings along to every lyric, creating a shared atmosphere that feels uplifting and grounding, the perfect soundtrack after a day of rugby thrills.
On Sunday, the energy shifts gears with Odongo Swag, the undisputed Ohangla maestro. His electric beats and infectious stage presence embody the pulse of Kisumu’s nightlife. With Swag headlining, fans can expect the tournament’s grand finale to close not just with rugby glory, but with a musical explosion that keeps the city buzzing long after the final whistle.
Moreover, TikoHUB will provide a premium experience for fans, including:
• Party bus experience: Party all the way from Nairobi to Kisumu.
• Includes a Regular Season Ticket.
• Departure: Friday, Sept 12 (Dala 7s Eve), return after the finals.
• All-inclusive Packages: Premium and Regular experiences
Fan Experience
Speaking to fans during the Christie 7s, you could almost touch their anticipation.
“Rugby is the hottest sports event right now, and what better way to have a lived experience while attending the series than a memorable afterparty. I’m a Kabras diehard, besides being on the road to support my team, sherehe ni lazima,” said Michael Luvisia. Kabras are the reigning Dala 7s champions.
However, his friend Sheila Nyokabi had shade to throw. “No one has won it more than us. Tuna sababisha hapa Christie na Dala pia tutawakilisha.” And to her delight, KCB went on to win the Christie 7s by beating Mwamba in the finals to retain the title.
The Governor’s Commitment
As the anticipation builds off the pitch, preparations are equally underway behind the scenes. During a courtesy call to his office by the secretariat of Kisumu RFC, Kisumu County Governor, Professor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o, emphasized three priorities:
• Security: Assuring residents and visitors of a safe, well-policed environment throughout the weekend.
• Youth Empowerment: Positioning sports and music as platforms for young people to showcase talent, build careers, and foster unity.
• Tourism Boost: Framing Dala 7s as more than a rugby competition — a celebration of Kisumu’s vibrancy, culture, and hospitality.
“To all ruby lovers and residents of Kisumu: TWENDE DALA 7s for fun and entertainment,” he declared, highlighting that the city is not just a venue but a host, a partner, and a participant in the festival.
Why Dala 7s?
Because the finale isn’t just about who lifts the trophy, it’s about a city alive with rugby passion, Luo rhythm, and the unmatched vibe of a true homecoming.
Pack your jerseys, drums, and dancing shoes. Hop on the TikoHUB ride, Dala 7s is the sweetest stop of them all!
