Athiyo Muhammad has been appointed head coach of the Lady Cranes XVs, taking charge of the national women’s 15s team as they prepare for a demanding 2026 season.
A respected figure in the local game, Athiyo made his name at Heathens Rugby Club, where discipline and structure brought consistent success.
He now steps into the national role, succeeding Charles Onen, with the task of guiding the Lady Cranes through a year that could shape their immediate future.
Athiyo will be supported by Kigongo Ssebalamu and Byron Okuba as assistant coaches, while Dorcus Mundua Asiimire takes on the role of team manager.
The backroom team blends technical expertise with organisational stability as the Lady Cranes prepare for international competition.
There will be little time to settle in. Uganda open their season with test matches against Tunisia before shifting focus to the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup set for May 21–31 in Nairobi, Kenya.
Competing in Division I, every match will count as the Lady Cranes look to strengthen their standing on the continent.
Athiyo inherits a team with experience at its core. Captain Angella Nanyonjo leads the side, while sevens standouts Peace Lekuru and Agnes Nakuya bring international exposure and composure.
The mix of youth and experience gives the new coach a solid base to build a competitive 15s team.
For the Lady Cranes XVs, 2026 presents a chance to make a statement in African women’s rugby. For Athiyo, it is an opportunity to carry his club success onto the national stage.
