Uganda's Lady Cranes Launch Africa 7s Campaign with Strategic Squad Build

Uganda's women's rugby sevens team has begun intensive training for the upcoming Rugby Africa Women's 7s championship, targeting a podium finish against continental powerhouses. Coach Charles Cyphus Onen retains core talent while integrating key returnees like veteran leader Peace Lekuru.

By Chris Posiano

October 23, 2025 at 4:42 AM

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Uganda's national women's sevens squad, the Lady Cranes, has solidified its position among Africa's elite rugby nations by consistently securing top-four finishes at the Rugby Africa Women's 7s Championship. Following a third-place achievement at last year's tournament in Accra, Ghana, the team is now focused on surpassing that result during the 2025 continental event.

Facing stiff competition from perennial champions South Africa's Blitzbok Women and the formidable Kenya Lionesses, the Lady Cranes confront a challenging path to the summit. Head coach Charles Cyphus Onen has initiated early preparations to navigate this competitive landscape, leveraging his experience to refine team strategy and cohesion.

Coach Onen maintains the core 12 players who competed at the recent Safari 7s tournament, while strategically expanding the roster to include athletes who were previously unavailable. This approach bolsters squad depth without disrupting established team chemistry. A significant morale and tactical upgrade arrives with the return of former captain Peace Lekuru, whose leadership experience gained at York Valkyrie in England's Betfred Women's Super League provides invaluable expertise.

Credit: Hassan Wamwayi
Peace Lekuru's reintegration strengthens the leadership group alongside current captain Agnes Nakuya and vice-captain Lydia Namabiro. The decision to largely retain the existing squad structure emphasizes stability—a critical factor as the team heads to Nairobi’s RFUEA Grounds along Ngong Road for the championship weekend of November 15 and 16.

Credit: Hassan Wamwayi
The provisional squad comprises: Agnes Nakuya (Captain), Lydia Namabiro (Vice Captain), Yvonne Najjuma, Fazira Namukwaya, Suzan Adong, Grace Nabaggala, Juliet Nandawula, Sandra Lona Amoli, Tina Akello, Comfort Anganyika, Racheal Mufuwa, Janat Nandudu, Samiya Ayikoru, Maimuna Nassozi, Nambozo Mastula, Peace Lekuru, Unity Namulala, and Esther Tino. This blend of continuity and refreshed talent positions the Lady Cranes for a determined bid at continental glory.