In the heart of Nairobi at the Kasarani Stadium, where cheers echoed across borders and determination lit up the air, the Uganda Women’s Kabaddi National Team, fondly known as the She Gladiators, delivered a commanding performance that not only secured their second consecutive Africa Kabaddi Championship title, but also stamped their ticket to the Kabaddi World Cup 2025 in Bihar, India.
The atmosphere was electric as Uganda faced fierce rivals Kenya in the final of the Africa Kabaddi 2025 Championship. In front of a passionate crowd, the She Gladiators dismantled the Kenyan defense with a mixture of tactical brilliance, unbreakable spirit and sheer skill, cruising to a 22-13 victory.
At the heart of this triumph were two names that will be etched in Ugandan kabaddi history Ojil Grace and Erinah Nattabi. The duo’s all-around performance was nothing short of sensational, setting the tone from the very first raid. Their agility, game intelligence and fearlessness kept Kenya on the back foot and ensured Uganda stayed in control throughout the final.
With this victory, Uganda not only retained their African crown but earned the right to represent the continent at the upcoming Kabaddi World Cup in June. For Coach Efrain Desire Makubuya, the win was more than just a title defense, it was a declaration.
“Winning this championship proves that we are the giants in Africa when it comes to Kabaddi. We are excited to take on top teams like India and Iran at the World Cup,” said Makubuya with pride, moments after lifting the trophy.
This triumph is part of a remarkable rise for Uganda in kabaddi. In 2023, the She Gladiators shocked the continent by beating Zanzibar 34-18 in the final, taking home their first Africa Kabaddi title. Their 2025 campaign was even more convincing, brushing aside experienced teams like South Africa, Rwanda, Zambia, Ghana, Tanzania, and others across a grueling two-day tournament.
But it wasn’t just the attackers who stole the show. Uganda’s defensive wall, anchored by the championship’s Best Defender Eunice Awori was crucial in shutting down Kenya’s raiders.
“Our defense strategy was key to keeping the Kenyans at bay,” Awori reflected.
“Every player executed their role with precision and it paid off.”
Her award was one of the crowning moments of the tournament, showcasing the tactical depth and discipline of Uganda’s backline.
Meanwhile, Kenya’s Lavender Awuor walked away with the Best Raider award, highlighting the individual brilliance present across the championship.
The final podium of the Africa Kabaddi 2025 Championship saw Uganda take gold, Kenya earn silver, and Zanzibar clinch the bronze medal. But beyond medals, the tournament served as a platform for African nations to show their growing kabaddi talent and commitment to the sport.
