National 7s champions Walukuba Barbarians have bolstered their squad ahead of this weekend’s Safari 7s at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, adding five new faces to their energetic and youthful side.
The Barbarians, who recently became only the sixth club to win Uganda’s National 7s title, enjoyed a breakout season powered by fearless young talent and a relentless work ethic.
Teenagers Shafiq Manisur and Matthew Oluka, both 17, impressed alongside senior players like skipper Bob Kawanda, proof that the Jinja-based team is building for the future.
Their rise has earned attention. Three players Shakim Ssembusi, Ivan Bulima, and Gift Wokorach have been called up to the Uganda 7s squad for the Safari 7s.
Ssembusi and Bulima are set for their national debuts, while Wokorach returns for his second appearance.
Wokorach finished as the second-highest scorer in the National 7s, and Bulima was widely considered a contender for MVP.
With the trio’s call-up and winger Isa Luqman sidelined by injury, head coach Leonard Lumbabula has brought in Hosanna Opileni, Alphonse Openyi, Brian Wandera, Stuart Mwayi, and Godwin Abwang to strengthen the lineup.
All five are familiar names on the local circuit and bring valuable experience as Walukuba aim to display their trademark flair on the international stage.
Meanwhile, Yasin Waiswa will miss out due to internal issues at his club, Hippos RFC.
Full squad
Ahmed Ssekyanzi, Musa Farid, Alphonse Otieno, Shafiq Manisur, Hosanna Opileni, Matthew Oluka, Alphonse Openyi, Bob Kawanda (C), Edward Emiemu, Brian Wandera, Stuart Mwayi, Godwin Abwang.
