The 2026 Dala Sevens is set to deliver more than just thrilling rugby action, with award-winning singer Bensoul and Ohangla star Odongo Swagg confirmed as the headline performers for the tournament’s official after-parties in Kisumu.
Scheduled for Saturday, August 1 and Sunday, August 2, the entertainment extravaganza will take place at Jomo Kenyatta International Stadium in Mamboleo, transforming the second leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit into a weekend-long celebration of sport, music and culture.
The performances form part of an enhanced fan experience powered by Tusker Na Rugby, which has injected Sh1.5 million into the tournament to elevate entertainment and fan engagement throughout the event.
Bensoul, one of Kenya’s most celebrated contemporary artists, is expected to bring his signature Afro-soul sound to the stage with a setlist featuring some of his biggest hits. Fans can look forward to sing-along favourites such as Nairobi, Extra Pressure, Lucy, Favourite Song, Extravaganza and Utaambia Nini Watu, songs that have cemented his reputation as one of the country’s most versatile performers.
Joining him is Kisumu’s own Odongo Swagg, who continues to enjoy massive popularity across western Kenya and beyond. Known for injecting fresh energy into the Ohangla genre, the singer is expected to have the home crowd on its feet with performances led by his viral hit Chwade Gi Nyundo.
His inclusion adds a distinctly local flavour to the entertainment lineup, giving fans an opportunity to celebrate one of the region’s fastest-rising musical stars on home soil.
The organisers have also assembled a strong supporting cast to ensure the energy never dips throughout the tournament.
Hype Ballo and Kish will lead crowd engagement, while an all-star DJ lineup featuring DJ Ves, DJ Teargas, DJ Daqchild, DJ Festa, DJ Dimore and DJ Gordo will provide continuous entertainment between rugby matches and during the evening celebrations.
The entertainment package reflects the growing popularity of the National Sevens Circuit, where rugby tournaments have evolved into lifestyle events that combine elite sporting competition with live music, food experiences and social gatherings.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Keza Mpyisi, Tusker Sports Brand Manager, said the initiative aims to create unforgettable experiences for rugby fans beyond the action on the pitch.
“The National Sevens Circuit is about much more than what happens on the pitch. It is about the passion of the fans, the communities that come together and the experiences that make every tournament memorable. Through Tusker Na Rugby, we want to bring that spirit to life by combining exciting rugby with great entertainment.”
Away from the stage, attention will also be firmly fixed on the rugby.
The Dala Sevens marks the second leg of the 2026 National Sevens Circuit, following an exciting curtain-raiser at the Prinsloo Sevens in Nakuru.
Defending overall circuit champions KCB Rugby made an early statement by lifting the Prinsloo Sevens title after defeating rivals Kabras Sugar, giving them an early advantage in the race for this year’s overall crown.
With momentum on their side, KCB will be aiming to maintain their winning run in Kisumu, while Kabras Sugar and the rest of the field will be eager to close the gap in what promises to be another fiercely contested tournament.
Beyond the title race, the Dala Sevens remains one of the most anticipated stops on the national circuit because of its electric atmosphere and passionate fan base. Every year, thousands of supporters travel to Kisumu not only to cheer on their favourite teams but also to experience the unique blend of rugby, music and nightlife that has become synonymous with the tournament.
Tickets for the tournament are available through the TikoHub booking platform, with fans encouraged to secure their spots early ahead of what is expected to be a packed weekend in Kisumu.
