Ugandan defender Shadia Nankya joins French Première Ligue side Le Havre

Shadia Nankya says her move to Le Havre AC Féminines aligns perfectly with her ambitions as a player, after she became the first Ugandan to feature in France's top women's football division.

The 24-year-old defender signed a one-and-a-half-year contract with the French Women's Première Ligue side, joining from Dallas Trinity FC in the United States.

"The club's ambitions match my desire to compete, grow, and succeed at the highest level. This move shows my progress and also proves that Ugandan women's football is gaining respect and recognition across the world," Nankya said.

Le Havre Athletic Club confirmed the signing on Tuesday via their social media channels.

"I am very happy to start a new chapter in my professional football career. This opportunity means so much to me, and I am ready to give everything, work harder, and represent my country with pride in France," she added.

Nankya described becoming the first Ugandan to play in the French Women's Première Ligue as a proud moment for both herself and her country.

"Being the first Ugandan to play in the French top league is a big honour for me and for Uganda. I hope this achievement inspires young girls back home to believe in themselves and chase their dreams," she said.

The 2026 transfer sees the composed centre-back join one of Europe's competitive leagues after gaining valuable experience in the United States. Last year, she signed a two-year contract with Washington Spirit before being loaned to Dallas Trinity FC, where she played until the end of 2025.

Before moving to the US, Nankya featured for Egyptian side FC Masar. She helped the club finish third in their debut appearance at the CAF Women's Champions League and was named in the Team of the Tournament, alongside fellow Ugandan Aisha Nantongo.

Her football journey began in 2016 at Uganda Martyrs Lubaga Women Football Club. Despite playing as a defender, she finished as top scorer in the FUFA Women's Cup with nine goals in her final season.

In 2019, she joined UCU Lady Cardinals before moving to Egypt. She broke into the Crested Cranes senior national team in 2018 and featured at the CECAFA and COSAFA Championships, where Uganda secured bronze medals.

In 2021, she suffered a knee injury that ruled her out of the 2022 CECAFA Women's Championship and the 2022 Women's Africa Cup of Nations. She later recovered and returned to action.

Le Havre AC Féminines compete in one of Europe's strongest women's football environments and are known for developing players and promoting progressive football.