- 2026 Women’s IHF Nations Trophy Africa Zone V | Group A | Saturday, November 7
- Uganda 37-35 Rwanda
Uganda’s Nile Queens are one victory away from lifting the IHF Nations Trophy – Africa Zone 5 title after surviving a tense battle to beat Rwanda 37-35 in Saturday’s semi-final in Kibaha, Tanzania.
The Nile Queens showed character when it mattered most, holding off a determined Rwandan side in a match that went beyond normal time before Uganda finally secured their place in Sunday’s final at the Filbert Bayi Multi Sports Centre.
Uganda looked in control during the opening half, taking a healthy 17-11 lead into the break. But Rwanda, who finished top of Group B, refused to surrender and fought back into the contest.
Their efforts paid off as they forced extra time after the two sides finished normal time locked at 31-31.
With the pressure mounting, Uganda found the strength to stay ahead in the decisive moments, eventually winning 37-35 to book a date with Kenya in the final.
Oliver Robinah Katusiime was at the heart of Uganda’s performance and walked away with the Player of the Match award after making a significant contribution to the victory.
Joyce Namutosi was Uganda’s leading scorer with eight goals, while Royce Namutosi added seven. Diana Nakamya and Claire Tabingwa scored six goals apiece, with Tiane Nakirya contributing four.
Patience Damulira and Hilda Abangit registered two goals each, while Noelin Amongin completed Uganda’s scoring with one goal.
Rwanda also had several players on the scoresheet, led by Clementine Hungurimana with eight goals. Joy Ineza scored seven, Solange Uwizeyimana added six and Obadia Niyingenera contributed five.
Honorine Ineza scored three goals, while Clesence Irakoze and Noelle Mwizerimana added three and two, respectively. Chantal Uwimana also got on the scoresheet with one goal.
The victory was an important response from Uganda after a mixed group-stage campaign. The Nile Queens opened their tournament with an emphatic 45-18 victory over Ethiopia before losing to Kenya in their final Group A match on Friday, November 6.
That defeat left Uganda second in the group and set up a difficult semi-final assignment against Rwanda, who had finished top of Group B.
However, the Ugandans rose to the occasion, ending Rwanda’s hopes of reaching the final in their first-ever appearance at the IHF Nations Trophy – Africa Zone 5.
The Nile Queens must now prepare for another East African contest against Kenya, who secured their final place by defeating hosts Tanzania in the other semifinal.
The two sides will meet on Sunday, November 8, at 4 p.m. East African time, with a regional title at stake. Uganda Women last lifted the trophy in 2016.
The winner will earn the right to represent Africa Zone 5 at the 2026 African Women’s Handball Championship, scheduled to take place in Tunisia from December 2-12.
The Zone 5 slot is the final remaining qualification place for the continental championship, with the other 15 participating teams already confirmed and the draw completed.
The eventual Zone 5 representatives will be placed in Group C alongside hosts Tunisia, Cameroon and Zambia.