The 2026 Dala 7s will not only serve up thrilling rugby action this weekend but also promise two unforgettable nights of music and entertainment as some of Kenya’s biggest entertainers prepare to take over Kisumu.
With thousands of rugby fans expected at the Jomo Kenyatta Stadium, Mamboleo, on Saturday, August 1 and Sunday, August 2, organizers have lined up a star-studded entertainment package that will begin after the day’s rugby action, turning the tournament into a full weekend festival.
Leading the line-up is Ohangla sensation Odongo Swagg, whose rise has made him one of the most celebrated Luo musicians in the country.
Performing on home soil in Kisumu, the singer is expected to treat fans to some of his biggest hits, including Nyogaya, Nyasembo, Lindah, Chwade Gi Nyudo and Nyalego, songs that have earned millions of views online and become staples at celebrations across western Kenya.
Joining him will be Kenyan singer-songwriter Bensoul, whose soulful sound and energetic stage performances have earned him a loyal fan base. The former Sol Generation artist is expected to perform fan favourites including Extra Pressure featuring Bien, Favorite, Lucy, Nairobi and several tracks from his latest projects.
The entertainment will also feature popular hype men Hype Ballo and Hype Kish, who are expected to keep the crowd energized throughout the evening as fans celebrate another exciting day of rugby.
On the decks, an impressive lineup of DJs has been assembled to ensure the party never slows down. They include DJ Daqchild, DJ Ves, DJ Teargas, DJ Dimore, DJ Festa and DJ Gordo, among other entertainers, who will provide the soundtrack to the post-match celebrations.
Speaking on KBC Channel one ahead of the tournament, Tusker Sports Brand Manager Keza Mpyisi said the entertainment programme reflects the brand’s vision of making the National Sevens Circuit more than just a sporting event.
“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.”
She added that the combination of rugby and live entertainment is what makes the Tusker Na Rugby experience unique.
“Through Tusker Na Rugby, we want to bring that spirit to life by combining exciting rugby with great entertainment. We are delighted to bring an exciting line-up of artistes and DJs to Kisumu and look forward to giving fans a weekend to remember while encouraging everyone to celebrate responsibly.”
Fans planning to soak up the festival atmosphere can purchase their tickets exclusively through Tikohub.com, with regular tickets priced at KSh 500 in advance and KSh 800 at the gate, while VIP tickets cost KSh 2,500 in advance and KSh 4,000 at the gate. Parking is also available at KSh 300 for early bird bookings and KSh 500 at the gate.
With a blend of elite rugby during the day and live performances from some of Kenya’s top entertainers after the final whistle, this year’s Dala 7s is shaping up to be one of the biggest sporting and entertainment weekends on the national calendar.
Whether you’re coming for the tries, the music or the electric atmosphere, Mamboleo Stadium promises an experience that will continue long after the final match has ended.
Belvine Omondi is a sports journalist who enjoys telling stories across football, volleyball, hockey, rugby and athletics. A trained journalist by profession, formerly worked for Pepeta and now contributes to the Sportpesa blog covering different aspects of sport.
