Waridi Foundation Hosts 4th Annual Lamu7s Rugby Tournament: Sport, Sustainability, and Tourism in Focus
Over the weekend, Waridi Foundation successfully hosted the 4th edition of the annual Lamu7s Rugby Tournament, continuing its mission to nurture sporting talent, promote sustainable tourism, and empower the youth of Lamu County.
The tournament attracted 12 registered teams, though 4 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, marking a shift from previous editions where only one team received the cash prize always of 50,000/- .
The tournament drew over 1,000 spectators, signaling growing interest in rugby within Lamu.
Special Guests and Entertainment
The event was honored by Deputy Governor Dr. Mubarak, who pledged support for Lamu rugby clubs with jerseys and equipment. Hon. Ndegwa, Hon Maguathi, Susumila ,Chief Advisor to the Governor, also expressed full support for rugby development in the county. Coast music legend Susumila performed, entertaining the crowd and inspiring local talent.
Sustainability and Community Impact
Held on World Tourism Day, the Lamu7s emphasized the theme “Sustainable Tourism”. Through the “Plant & Play” initiative, 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 over 126 bird species 🦜
Waridi Foundation founder and Women Representative aspirant for Lamu County, Waridi, emphasized:
“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.”
About Lamu7s
Launched in 2017 when Waridi was Miss Tourism Kenya Lamu County, the Lamu7s Rugby Tournament has become a platform for youth empowerment, talent development, and promotion of underrepresented sports in Kenya.
Waridi Foundation remains committed to growing rugby, investing in youth talent, and promoting sustainable tourism across Lamu County.
The patners of this event were Green Pamoja Intiatives,Asali Mikoko ,pride of Lamu ,white label entertainment ,ujamaa group ,Lamu Muslim association and others were appreciated by Waridi Executive Director Ms Jenniffer For the collaborations .
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