Kabale is set to once again become the heartbeat of regional rugby this weekend as the seventh edition of the Gorilla 7s returns, bringing together top teams from Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi for an exciting festival of sport, development and tourism.
Renowned as one of the most unique tournaments on Uganda’s rugby calendar, Gorilla 7s has earned a reputation for combining high-level sevens rugby with the demanding conditions of Kabale’s high altitude.
Over the years, the event has evolved into far more than just a competition, serving as a platform for talent development, community engagement and the promotion of tourism in southwestern Uganda.This year’s tournament will feature men’s and women’s competitions alongside an age-grade championship for primary and secondary school teams.
The junior competition will kick off proceedings on Friday before the senior tournaments take centre stage on Saturday, while Sunday’s programme will be dedicated to tourism activities, including hiking adventures and a scenic boat cruise on the breathtaking Lake Bunyonyi.
Tournament coordinator Jude Rwakayanga praised the collective effort that has made this year’s edition possible, acknowledging the commitment shown by organisers, partners and the rugby fraternity.
“As the coordinator, I wish to thank the local organizing committee, Uganda Rugby, our partners, the teams and the fans that have committed to see Gorilla 7s happen,”
Rwakayanga said.
Originally staged as the Kigezi High Altitude 7s, the tournament has grown steadily into one of the country’s recognised rugby development events. While its name has evolved into Gorilla 7s, its identity remains firmly rooted in Kabale, where the challenging altitude continues to provide a distinctive test for participating teams while enhancing the tournament’s appeal.
One of the tournament’s defining features has been its commitment to nurturing future stars. By giving primary and secondary school players an opportunity to compete before the senior fixtures begin, Gorilla 7s has successfully blended grassroots development with elite competition, creating an environment that inspires young athletes while showcasing some of the region’s finest rugby talent.
The men’s competition will feature an impressive lineup including Kigezi Silverbacks, Rams, Uganda Rugby 7s Select, 1000 Hills, Walukuba Barbarians, Impis, Toyota Buffaloes, Uganda Rugby 7s Academy, KIU Crows and Platinum Credit Heathens.
In the women’s category, Kigezi Queens, Thunderbirds, Ewes, Rukinzo Women RFC and Kisoro Jaguars have all confirmed their participation, setting the stage for another fiercely competitive tournament.
Walukuba Barbarians return as the defending men’s champions after lifting the 2025 title, while Thunderbirds will be aiming to retain their women’s crown following last year’s impressive triumph.
All matches will once again be hosted at Kabale Stadium, a venue that has become synonymous with the tournament and a symbol of rugby’s continued growth in the Kigezi region. The stadium’s high-altitude setting remains one of the tournament’s signature attractions, presenting teams with a unique challenge rarely experienced elsewhere in Uganda.
Beyond the action on the pitch, the tournament has received a significant boost through the support of Engsol Engineering Solutions. Led by Director Ian Walker, the company has partnered with the Kigezi Rugby Association to strengthen rugby development in the region by unveiling a new scrum machine ahead of this year’s tournament.
The equipment is expected to play a vital role in improving player development not only in Kabale but across the wider Kigezi region.Kigezi Rugby Association chairman Pearson Makoma revealed that the partnership is intended to have a lasting impact beyond this year’s event, with neighbouring districts also set to benefit as the tournament expands to new venues in future editions.
Walker reaffirmed Engsol’s long-term commitment to rugby development, expressing confidence that the Kigezi region possesses enormous potential to produce future rugby players, coaches and sports administrators capable of contributing to the game’s continued growth both regionally and nationally.
Away from the rugby field, organisers are also keen to showcase Kabale’s rich tourism offerings. Sunday’s activities, including hiking trails and boat cruises on Lake Bunyonyi, are designed to give players, officials and supporters an opportunity to experience the natural beauty that has helped establish Gorilla 7s as a unique blend of sport and adventure.
With clubs from Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi expected to battle for honours, the seventh edition of Gorilla 7s promises another memorable weekend filled with high-quality rugby, youth development, regional collaboration and unforgettable tourism experiences.
As the tournament continues to grow in stature, it remains a shining example of how sport can unite communities while promoting both athletic excellence and local development.
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