With four graduates from Uganda’s U20 program and a dozen players transitioning from the 7s national setup, the Uganda Lady Rugby Cranes have named a youthful and dynamic 28-player squad for the upcoming Rugby Africa Women’s Cup – Division One set to be held in San Pedro, Côte d’Ivoire from April 9–20, 2025.
The selection marks a defining moment for Ugandan women’s rugby, as the national 15s side undergoes a bold transformation focused on growth, experience and long-term development.
At the heart of this shift are four standout players who have completed their journey from the U20 ranks and will now don the senior jersey:
Bushira Namutebi, Peace Nemira, Mukyaala Proscovia and Phoebe Nakalembe, all of whom were part of Uganda’s groundbreaking U20 tour to South Africa in 2024. Their elevation symbolizes not just progression but promise.
Joining them are twelve players who have switched codes from the 7s national team, injecting the squad with speed, skill, and tactical versatility. The fusion of youth and experience has created a squad Head Coach Charles Onen believes is capable of making waves.
“We’ve had a solid build-up with this group, and we are confident they will represent Uganda with pride,” said Onen at the flag-off ceremony held at Cooper Chimney in Lugogo.
“Our focus is to build a strong 15s program and this tournament offers the ideal platform.”
Guiding the Lady Cranes into this campaign will be new captain Angella Nanyonjo who takes over leadership with seven international test caps to her name. Known for her composure and fierce work ethic on the field, Nanyonjo now shoulders the responsibility of uniting a squad brimming with new energy.
Her mission is simple yet immense: lead Uganda to the top of their group and into the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup final stage in May.
Uganda is pooled with Tunisia, Zimbabwe and tournament hosts Côte d’Ivoire with only the top team progressing. All eyes will be on their opening fixture against Tunisia on April 11 at 5 MP (EAT), followed by a prime time clash with the hosts on April 15 and a decisive battle against Zimbabwe on April 19.
The Lady Cranes are expected to depart for Côte d’Ivoire on Tuesday morning, carrying not just their jerseys and boots but the aspirations of a nation ready to rise again in continental women’s rugby.
Full Travelling Squad
Patricia Anek, Doreen Sijali, Christine Kokoi, Phoebe Nakalembe, Doreen Mbabazi, Evelyn Beth Asaba Awebwa, Yvonne Najjuma, Fazirah Namukwaya, Peace Nemira, Cabrine Kirabo, Proscovia Mukyala, Leona Acen, Sarah Nakafeero, Suzan Adong, Tina Akello, Phiona Nantongo, Samiya Ayikoru, Lydia Namabiro, Bushira Namutebi, Peace Lekuru, Grace Nabaggala, Grace Auma, Comfort Anganyika, Agnes Nakuya, Racheal Mufuwa, Janat Nandudu, Mastula Nambozo and Angella Nanyonjo (Captain)
Technical Bench
- Head Coach: Charles Onen
- Assistant Coach: Kigongo Ssebalamu
- Physiotherapists: Nelson Mayeku, Natasha Nataatsya
- Team Manager: Dorcas Mundua
