A wave of fresh energy and familiar grit will define Uganda’s campaign at the 11th Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, as the Victoria Pearls reveal a dynamic 14-player squad ahead of their title defense in Kigali.
Set to depart on May 31, the team enters the tournament with eyes on glory and more with a Women’s Cup and Capricorn Eagles series win at the back of their minds.
Stealing the spotlight are three new names: Teddy Oyella, Kevin Amuge and Sarah Tino, each representing a new chapter in Uganda’s evolving cricket story.
Oyella, known for her wicket-taking reliability, brings sharpened fitness and fielding skills. Amuge steps in as a disciplined opening bowler with an enviable economy rate.
And Tino, an off spin all-rounder, is set to make her international debut a moment both thrilling and defining.
Meanwhile, Proscovia Alako returns to the fold, reigniting her quest for consistency in the T20 format, having achieved an amazing century at the previous T20i 10th Kwibuka tournament.
These changes come as key student-athletes, including Irene Mutoni and Malisa Ariokot, are given space to focus on academics, a reminder of the delicate balance many young cricketers maintain.
Victoria Pearls Squad
Janet Mbabazi (Captain), Esther Iloku, Kevin Awino, Ritah Musamali (vice captain), Immaculate Nakisuuyi, Stephanie Nampiina, Proscovia Alako, Sarah Walaza, Consy Aweko, Sarah Akiteng, Kevin Amuge, Phiona
Kulume, Teddy Oyella and Sarah Tino
For head coach Deus Muhumuza, the blend of youthful promise and veteran presence is strategic
“We’re working on a positive batting mindset, disciplined bowling and agile fielding. This tournament is not just about defending our title, it’s about growth.”
Skipper Janet Mbabazi, leading the side once again, is clear-eyed about the mission. “Rwanda feels like a second home. We want to showcase our skills, build momentum, and use this as preparation for the ICC qualifiers ahead.”
The Victoria Pearls will kick off their campaign on June 4 against Cameroon at the iconic Gahanga International Cricket Stadium. Ranked 17th in the world, Uganda is not just playing to win, they’re playing to climb.
- June 4, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Cameroon Women | 10:45 AM | Gahanga B Oval
- June 5, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Zimbabwe Emerging Women | 10:30 AM | Gahanga Main Oval
- June 6, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Sierra Leone Women | 10:45 AM | Gahanga B Oval
- June 7, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Brazil Women | 10:30 AM | Gahanga Main Oval
- June 8, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Malawi Women | 10:30 AM | Gahanga Main Oval
- June 10, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Tanzania Women | 10:30 AM | Gahanga Main Oval
- June 11, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Nigeria Women | 10:30 AM, Gahanga Main Oval
- June 12, 2025 – Uganda Women vs Rwanda Women | 10:45 AM | Gahanga B Oval
Beyond the boundaries and scoreboards, the Kwibuka Tournament stands as a tribute to memory and resilience, held annually in remembrance of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi.
Since its humble start in 2014 as a bilateral series between Uganda and Rwanda, it has grown into a beacon of women’s cricket, drawing teams from across Africa and beyond.
This year’s event features nine nations, with Uganda set to face the likes of Nigeria, Zimbabwe Emerging, and hosts Rwanda in a competitive round-robin format.
The top four teams will progress to the semifinals, with the final promising to crown the “All Glory Champion”.
The semifinals are scheduled for June 13, with the final set for June 14.
