Kenya successfully hosted the prestigious Africa Women's 7s Cup this past weekend, this gave a compelling platform for showcasing top-tier women's rugby talent from across the continent. The atmosphere was dynamic, fueled by vibrant public support for the women's game. For DBA Africa, participation in the age-grade category was a truly invaluable and developmental experience. 

The senior elite tournament featured the continent's leading sides and DBA Africa was there to witness both days. The teams included: South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Madagascar, Tunisia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ghana, Mauritius, Côte d'Ivoire, Burkina Faso, and Egypt. South Africa secured their 11th title, reinforcing their regional dominance, a repeat outcome following their victory over hosts Kenya in the previous year's final in Accra. The final match was, once again, a thrilling encounter between Women's Rugby powerhouses Kenya and South Africa.

Crucially, the tournament also directed a vital spotlight onto the future generation of African women's rugby stars through the inclusion of the girls age grade category. This commendable initiative by Rugby Afrique and Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) ran parallel to the main fixtures, allowing the young players essential exposure to an international tournament setting, something we push for by hosting girls rugby tournaments. The category primarily featured Nairobi-based teams, including St. Theresa Girls, Ololo Foundation, DBA Africa Girls, Rugby Patrons Society-Ngong, and a Nairobi Combine team. A strong side from the Central region ultimately clinched the category title.

For the DBA squad, competing before the local Kenyan spectators was an opportunity only some dreamt of. With an estimated 3,000 fans in attendance over the two days, the young athletes gained rare, firsthand exposure to the high-energy and demanding environment of elite rugby. The crowd's engagement, marked by cheering, celebration, and dancing to local music, amplified the competitive spirit and atmosphere of the event.

Philip Wamae, the Head of the Mission, offered high praise for the team's commitment: "The team performed resoundingly well across both weekends, engaging with the crowd and delivering their maximum effort in every fixture. They showed teamwork and commitment, core values we promote at the academy through the 'Wazi Wazi' approach."

The DBA Africa team was very diverse, successfully integrating girls from different schools and social backgrounds. Unified by rugby and the academy's mission and values, they effectively brought together their varied competencies, experiences, and abilities to operate as a single unit. The inclusion of girls in sport in Africa remains a foundational pillar for DBA Africa, and the visible support from parents in the stands was a particularly significant highlight.

DBA Africa extends its sincere commendation to the Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) for putting on such an excellent and professionally managed tournament for both Women and Girls. The participating teams brought forward some exciting rugby that resonated with the spectators. We offer our hearty congratulations to St. Theresa Girls for their victory in the age-grade category and to the South Africa Women's 7s team for their triumph in the elite competition. With this level of investment and talent on display, the future of women's rugby in Africa is bright.