Uganda Dominates Opening Day of 2026 Africa Men’s Sevens Series

Hosts Uganda topped Pool B with maximum points after two commanding wins on the first day of the 2026 Africa Men’s Sevens Series at Kyadondo Rugby Grounds in Kampala, positioning the Rugby Cranes as frontrunners for Africa’s lone qualification spot into the 2027 World Rugby SVNS 3.

The Cranes opened their campaign in emphatic fashion with a 38-0 thrashing of Senegal before following it up with a hard-fought 26-10 victory over Tunisia. The results left Uganda on six points from two matches, level with Zambia at the summit of Pool B on points difference, while setting up a decisive final pool clash against the Zambians on Sunday.

Clinical display against Senegal

Uganda settled quickly after a slightly nervy opening against Senegal. Speedster Daniels Otim opened the scoring, with Malcom Okello converting. Alex Aturinda powered over in the corner shortly afterwards, and Okello again added the extras from a difficult angle.

The forwards took over before half-time, with Desire Ayera and captain Ian Munyani both crossing. In the second half Okello broke from halfway to score under the posts (and convert), before Karim Arinaitwe sealed the rout by picking from the base of a scrum and finishing unopposed.

Uganda scorers vs Senegal: Daniels Otim (1 try), Alex Aturinda (1), Desire Ayera (1), Ian Munyani (1), Malcom Okello (1 try, 4 conversions), Karim Arinaitwe (1).

Tunisia provide sterner test

Tunisia proved a tougher proposition in the evening fixture. Uganda still controlled proceedings and ran out 26-10 winners, with tries from Malcom Okello, Aaron Tukei and Shakim Ssembusi plus a penalty try proving decisive. Tunisia responded through a brace from Yasinne Riyeni but could not close the gap against a well-organised home defence backed by a vocal Kyadondo crowd.

The two victories underline Uganda’s credentials as tournament favourites on home soil. The series doubles as the official World Rugby SVNS 3 Africa qualifier, with the winner earning promotion to the global third-tier circuit.

Festival atmosphere and strong support

The opening day was boosted by a vibrant festival atmosphere. Sponsors including Nile Special enhanced the experience with giveaways and lively fan zones, helping create a carnival feel around the main pitch. Strong home support has been a feature throughout, with the crowd repeatedly lifting the Cranes during key moments.

Beyond the senior team, organisers and the Uganda Rugby Union continue to emphasise youth development pathways, using high-profile home events such as this to inspire the next generation of sevens talent.

Looking ahead

Uganda face Zambia in their final Pool B match on Sunday (kick-off 10:06 EAT). Both sides remain unbeaten, so the result will decide the pool winner and shape the path into the knockout stages. In Pool A, Zimbabwe also sit on six points after victories over Morocco and Ghana, with Nigeria and Morocco still in contention for the remaining semi-final places.

The Cranes will aim to maintain their momentum, convert home advantage into a tournament title, and secure that coveted place on the 2027 SVNS 3 circuit.