By Daniel Nhakaniso
Zimbabwe claimed the Africa Men’s Sevens Series title with a 26-19 victory over hosts Uganda in the final in Kampala on Sunday, securing qualification for the 2027 World Rugby SVNS 3 circuit.
The Cheetahs upset the tournament favourites at Kyadondo Rugby Club to complete a successful campaign under new head coach Fortunate Chipendu and book their place on the international sevens circuit.
Zimbabwe’s triumph also means they now hold both senior men’s continental titles, having won the Africa Cup in the 15-a-side format earlier this year.
The Cheetahs had made a strong start to the tournament on Saturday, winning their opening two Pool A matches against Morocco and Ghana before beating Nigeria 26-19 to finish top of their group.
Ryan Musumhi was among the standout performers on the opening day, earning two Player of the Match awards after impressive displays against Morocco and Ghana.
Zimbabwe carried that momentum into the knockout stages, where they overcame a scare against Zambia before overcoming Uganda in the final to secure the continental crown.
The victory gives the Cheetahs an opportunity to compete in the global SVNS 3 competition next year, a significant step in their efforts to progress through World Rugby’s sevens pathway.
It also provides a boost to Zimbabwe’s ambitions of returning to the international sevens stage and building towards future Olympic qualification campaigns.
For Chipendu, the title marks an encouraging beginning to his tenure after taking over from Ricky Chirengende.
The Cheetahs’ success in Kampala adds another milestone to a memorable year for Zimbabwean rugby, with the national men’s teams now reigning African champions in both sevens and 15s.
