The star for women’s rugby continues to rise in Uganda. Regaining promotion to the top tier of African rugby was only the first step for the now rejuvenated national 15s side, towards reliving the old glory days.
Speaking at the flag off of the team to Madagascar, the captain, Angella Nanyonjo, was confident in her squad and couldn’t wait to compete at the top level.
“We have prepared well, those teams are top sides but we are also a top side, that’s why we are there.”
The Lady Cranes return to the continental showpiece to contend with regional arch-rivals, the Kenya Lionesses, in addition to Madagascar and African powerhouse, South Africa.
“We have had video sessions and we know what to expect from all the teams in the competition,” Nanyonjo added.
The team shall have to do without the services of Peace Lekuru, who was the top scorer at the Rugby Africa Cup – Division 1 in April. Lekuru suffered an ankle injury that has ruled her out of the tournament.
The other players to unfortunately miss out on this tournament include Fazira Namukwaya and Leona Achen. Their absence has opened a window of opportunities for youngsters; Latifa Tiko, Mercy Atek and Hellen Acanit to get their shot at impressing on an international stage.
The Lady Cranes shall open the tournament this Saturday, 7th June, when they face off with the tough opponent in the pack, South Africa. The Springbok ladies have already booked their ticket to the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup and shall look to use this tournament for preparations.
This being a World Cup year, the international WXV competitions shall not be held for the women, meaning the goal now for the Lady Cranes is to avoid relegation.
Below is the full contingent of players and the fixtures for the tournament. All times are in East African Time, EAT.
Saturday, 7th June
- South Africa Vs Uganda – 1PM
- Madagascar Vs Kenya – 3PM
Wednesday, 11th June
- South Africa Vs Kenya – 1PM
- Madagascar Vs Uganda – 3PM
Sunday, 15th June
- Kenya Vs Uganda – 1PM
- South Africa Vs Madagascar – 3PM
The Forwards
- Mbabazi Doreen
- Kokoi Christine
- Musabera Jeniffer
- Nakalembe Phoebe
- Sijali Doreen
- Najjuma Yvonne
- Nantongo Phiona
- Acanit Hellen
- Mukyala Proscovia
- Nemira Peace
- Kirabo Cabrine
- Adong Suzan
- Namabiro Lydia
- Nanyonjo Angella
The Backs
- Akello Tina
- Nakafeero Sarah
- Namutebi Bushira
- Nabaggala Grace
- Tiko Latifa
- Atek Mercy
- Angayika Comfort
- Nakuya Agnes
- Mufuwa Racheal
- Akello Christine
- Samiya Ayikoru
- Nandawula Juliet
- Nandudu Janat
- Nambozo Mastula