By OUR CORRESPONDENT
The Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) yesterday hosted a welcome dinner at Carnivore Restaurant last night, setting the stage for the highly anticipated HSBC World Sevens Series Division 2 tournament.
The event brought together participating teams, World Rugby officials, and key stakeholders, celebrating Kenya’s growing prominence as a premier destination for international sporting events.
Speaking at the event, the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, Rebecca Miano, extended a warm welcome to all the players and delegates. “We are thrilled to host the HSBC World Sevens Series Division 2 tournament here in Nairobi, Kenya. We have long hoped to host a global leg of the World sevens series; now that dream is realized.
The journey to this moment has demanded persistence, investment, and an unyielding belief in our capacity to deliver a world-class experience.” “By consistently hosting international sporting events, we are not only boosting our tourism sector but also solidifying Kenya’s profile as a capable and enthusiastic host on the world stage.”
“Tourism and sports go hand in hand, while Rugby brings the visitor to our shores, hospitality deepens their stay, a rugby fan comes for the game but leaves having enjoyed the magic of Kenya. Our commitment is that every fan, player, and official departs with Kenya etched into their affections.” She added.
Speaking at the same ceremony, the Principal Secretary of Sports, Elijah Mwangi, underscored the government’s commitment to hosting a world-class event.
“The hosting of this tournament is a testament to the strong collaborations between various arms of the government, including the Ministries of Sports, Tourism, Interior, Foreign Affairs, the Kenya Rugby Union, World Rugby, and the Private sector. We remain committed to delivering a safe, secure, well-organized, and memorable tournament.”
On her part, the Kenya Rugby Union Chairman, Harriet Okach, spoke about the immense pride the Union has in hosting the tournament.
“For us at the Kenya Rugby Union, this weekend represents an important milestone. Hosting this tournament speaks to the growth of rugby in Kenya and the confidence the global rugby community has placed in us.”
Echoing her sentiments was World Rugby’s Head of Sevens event planning and delivery, Mark Honeybunn, “World Rugby was thrilled at the opportunity of hosting this tournament in Nairobi, as this evening has set the pace with a showcase of Kenyan hospitality, we look forward to a dynamic and special tournament.”
The HSBC World Sevens Series Division 2 tournament is scheduled to take place on Saturday and Sunday, with twelve teams from around the world battling out for the opening leg of the division two series, promising two days of exhilarating rugby action. The welcome dinner served as a perfect prelude, fostering camaraderie and excitement among the teams and officials.
