Lamu West, Kenya – September 29, 2025: The Waridi Foundation successfully hosted the 4th edition of the annual Lamu7s Rugby Tournament held over the weekend.
The tournament sought to continue the Foundation’s mission to nurture sporting talent, promote sustainable tourism, and empower the youth of Lamu County.
The tournament attracted 12 registered teams. However, four teams – Lamu7s, Mpeketoni Girls Rugby Team, Young Cubs Mpeketoni, and Malindi Turtles – competed due to logistical challenges. Malindi Turtles emerged victorious with a 12–0 win, defending their record as the most decorated champions in Waridi Foundation tournaments.
In a move to reward participation and nurture talent, the winners received Ksh. 20,000, while the other teams were awarded Ksh. 5,000 each. This marked a shift from previous editions where only the winning team received a cash prize. The tournament, held at Tiger Ground, Lamu County, drew over 1,000 spectators, highlighting the growing passion for rugby in Lamu.
The event was graced by the Lamu county Deputy Governor Dr. Mubarak, who pledged to support Lamu rugby clubs with jerseys and equipment.
Also present were Hon. Ndegwa, Hon. Maguathi, and Chief Advisor to the Governor Susumila, who expressed their commitment to rugby development in the county.
Coast music legend Susumila, who not only entertained the crowd but also inspired local talent.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Coinciding with World Tourism Day, the Lamu7s embraced the theme “Sustainable Tourism” through the Plant & Play initiative, where players and partners:
• Planted 5,000 mangroves along Lamu beaches
• Led a town clean-up initiative
•Promoted Lamu’s mainland and island tourism, including Pangani Forest, Lake Kenyatta, and the county’s 126+ bird species
Waridi Foundation founder and Women Representative aspirant for Lamu County , Jenniffer Waridi, noted: “Lamu is a one-stop destination: from the island’s sandy beaches to the mainland’s wildlife and eco-tourism gems. Lamu7s blends sport, sustainability, and tourism to create opportunities for our youth.”
Launched in 2017 when Waridi was Miss Tourism Kenya – Lamu County, the Lamu7s Rugby Tournament has grown into a platform for youth empowerment, talent development, and the promotion of underrepresented sports in Kenya.
The tournament usually takes place at Tiger Ground, Mpeketoni, while Lamu Beach Rugby is held at Wiyoni, Lamu Island, showcasing sports tourism. The next beach edition is scheduled for November 2025, featuring collaborations with Safaricom 7s, which helps expose local players to broader opportunities under Waridi Foundation’s sponsorship.
Waridi Foundation extends gratitude to its partners:
Green Pamoja Initiatives, Asali Mikoko, Pride of Lamu, White Label Entertainment and many others.
Executive Director Ms. Jenniffer Waridi expressed deep appreciation for the collaborations that made this year’s tournament a success.