Gorilla 7s returns to Kabale this weekend for the seventh edition of the high altitude rugby sevens tournament, bringing together teams from Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi for another major weekend of rugby.
The tournament remains one of the most distinctive events on Uganda’s rugby calendar, combining competitive sevens action with the challenge of Kabale’s altitude and the wider attraction of sport tourism. This year’s edition will feature men’s and women’s competitions, alongside an age grade tournament for primary and secondary school teams on Friday, senior teams on Saturday, and tourism activities on Sunday to close the weekend.
Speaking about the event, coordinator Jude Rwakayanga expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders who have supported the tournament’s return. “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,” he said.
Formerly known as the Kigezi High Altitude 7s, the tournament has grown steadily over the years into a recognised platform for rugby development in south western Uganda. Its identity has remained closely tied to Kabale, where the setting has always been part of the event’s appeal and competitive edge.
The tournament has also continued to provide opportunities for both age grade and senior rugby, giving young players a chance to compete on the opening day before the main men’s and women’s teams take centre stage on Saturday. That structure has helped the event maintain a balance between development and elite competition.
Confirmed teams so far include 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 men’s category, while Kigezi Queens, Thunderbirds, Ewes, Rukinzo Women RFC and Kisoro Jaguars are among the women’s teams confirmed.
Gorilla 7s returns with Walukuba Barbarians as the defending men’s champions and Thunderbirds as the defending women’s champions, after both sides won the 2025 series.
Kabale Stadium will once again host the action, reinforcing its link with the tournament and with the growth of rugby in the region. The venue has become a familiar home for high altitude rugby and a key part of the event’s story.
Engsol Engineering Solutions, through their Director Ian Walker, has also pledged support for rugby development in Uganda in partnership with the Kigezi Rugby Association. A scrum machine was unveiled ahead of Gorilla 7s in Kabale, with the initiative expected to benefit Kabale and the wider Kigezi region.
Kigezi Rugby Association chairman Pearson Makoma said the partnership will extend beyond Kabale, with sister districts in the region set to benefit as the tournament moves to fresh grounds next year. Mr. Ian Walker said the region has strong potential to produce future rugby players and sports administrators, adding that Engsol remains committed to supporting rugby growth in Kigezi and across Uganda.
Beyond the rugby, the 2026 edition will also highlight the tourism potential of the area, with hiking and boat cruises on Lake Bunyonyi scheduled for Sunday. That mix of sport, community and tourism has helped make Gorilla 7s Kabale more than just a rugby tournament.
With teams from Uganda, Rwanda and Burundi expected to feature, the seventh edition promises to deliver a full weekend of competition, development and experience. The tournament continues to stand as an important celebration of rugby in Kabale and in the wider region.
Follow the official Uganda Rugby, social media accounts to keep up with all information from the games including fixtures, results, and statistical information. Uganda Rugby is also available via WhatsApp Channel, simply tap the icon below to follow.
