What Kenya Simbas are doing differently to break World Cup qualification jinx
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 02.07.25. | 15:27
With the tournament expanding from 20 to 24 teams, the Simbas have a stronger chance of qualifying, but only if they rise to the occasion
Kenya 15s national men’s team, Simbas, are gearing up for what could be a defining chapter in their history.
The Jerome Paarwater-coached side is hoping they will end a long-standing World Cup qualification drought.
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Despite several close attempts over the years, including a painful near-miss in 2022 and another heartbreaker in 2014, Kenya has never qualified for the Rugby World Cup.
In 2022, the Simbas fell to Namibia in the Rugby Africa Cup (RAC) final, the last step before sealing a ticket to the global showpiece.
Eight years earlier, they were also within touching distance but were stopped by Zimbabwe, losing 27-10 in the final round of the qualifiers for the 2015 edition in England.
This year, the team is determined to end the jinx.
This year’s Rugby Africa Cup, set for Tuesday, 8 to Saturday, 19 July at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, offers another golden opportunity as the winner earns automatic qualification to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
With the tournament expanding from 20 to 24 teams, the Simbas have a stronger chance of qualifying, but only if they rise to the occasion.
To prepare, the Simbas spent a full month in South Africa, sharpening their skills against some of the region’s toughest opposition. The camp delivered mixed results but valuable lessons.
They drew 17-17 with SWD Eagles, fell twice to South Africa U20 (42-24 and 75-19), tested themselves against Sanlam Boland, and picked up a single win against the Barbarians.
Their final match ended in a 42-35 loss to the Limpopo Blue Bulls.
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However, according to the team manager Jimmy Munene, the results are not the full story.
“In the past, we have always fallen short, and we have had to reflect on why. This time, we have done things differently,” Munene started.
He went on to explain that while the camp focused on physical preparation, they put significant emphasis on the mental side of the game.
“We emphasized sharpening our focus, building mental fortitude, and ensuring the players are mentally ready for the challenge ahead,” he offered.
One of the standout moments of the South African tour was the team’s visit to Robben Island, where South African freedom fighters, including Nelson Mandela, were once imprisoned.
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Munene noted that the trip was not just historical, as it carried a deeply personal reflection.
“It gave the players a chance to reflect on the struggles that took place there, the fight for freedom and survival. It reminded them that adversity is part of greatness. It helped them realize that no player or team is inherently superior to them. That mindset shift is already showing on the pitch,” Munene added.
Heading into Kampala, the Simbas embrace their status as underdogs.
Uganda, the host nation, is considered the favourite after a dominant win over the Limpopo Blue Bulls and buoyed by home support.
Namibia and Zimbabwe, long regarded as continental powerhouses, remain in the mix. But Kenya is not focused on names.
“In sport, there are no miracles. If we want to proceed, we have to win. We have to be champions of Africa. There is always talk about Namibia and Zimbabwe, but other teams are also preparing well. There are the ones you do not expect much from, but we are not underestimating anyone. Every game matters,” he said.
Behind the scenes, the Simbas’ technical team has worked with a deliberate and disciplined plan, including building depth, establishing a probable starting 15, and ensuring even non-travelling players understand their roles in supporting the campaign.
“Everyone is aligned with the mission. The South Africa camp helped build depth, and there is a plan to possibly extend our stay in Uganda depending on how things go. We are focused, united, and ready to take each game like a final,” he concluded.
They will open their campaign on Tuesday, 8 July, in a knockout clash against Uganda at the Mandela National Stadium.
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