Lady Cranes fight to stay in top tier as Rugby Africa Cup kicks off in Nairobi

Rugby Africa Women’s Cup

South Africa v Madagascar 2pm

Kenya v Uganda 4pm

The Lady Cranes 15s will be in a fight to remain in the top tier of African women's rugby when they open their Women's Rugby Africa Cup campaign against hosts Kenya on Saturday in Nairobi.

The team has shown great maturity since winning promotion to the top tier.

"Last year, we were promoted to the top tier after beating Ivory Coast, Zimbabwe, and Tunisia," said assistant coach Charles Onen.

Uganda carried that winning attitude into the tournament in Madagascar, where they managed to win one match against the hosts (24–20), allowing them to maintain their place in the top tier. Performing well at this tournament is vital for their path toward a World Cup place, but the immediate concern is preserving their status at this event.

"This is where Uganda is supposed to be playing," Onen added. "This is where you gauge yourself against the top-performing countries like Kenya, South Africa, and currently, Madagascar."

The Lady Cranes face a Kenyan side that humiliated them in their last meeting. However, with the wealth of knowledge they have gained leading up to the event, a much-improved performance could be on the cards.

Kenya, on the other hand, are hunting for a title that South Africa won ahead of them, and they have plenty of reason to believe.

"Against South Africa in 2025, we lost by just seven points, and I believe they were the only team we lost to last year. Having featured at the World Cup, they will definitely be a formidable side," said a Kenyan representative, identified as Odongo.

Kenya likely do not see Uganda as a serious threat, with their sights set on South Africa. But under coach Muhammed Athio, the Lady Cranes must believe they have what it takes to succeed.

Lady Cranes XVs squad for the Africa Cup

Evelyn Asaba, Janepher Nakale, Phoebe Nakalembe, Christine Kokoi, Doreen Mbabazi, Doreen Sijali, Yvonne Najjuma, Phiona Nantongo, Fazira Namukwaya, Leona Acen, Proscovia Mukyala, Hellen Acanit, Peace Nemira, Suzan Adong, Cabrine Kirabo, Angella Nanyonjo, Gorreti Babirye, Shaine Babirye, Nandawula Juliet, Namutebi Bushira, Anguchia Justine, Christine Akello, Peace Lekuru, Grace Nabaggala, Unity Namulala, Gertrude Kateesa and Rachel Mufuwa.