The Kenya Lionesses, Kenya’s national women’s rugby sevens team, have finalized their squad for the highly anticipated Africa Women’s Rugby Sevens Cup, scheduled to take place in Accra, Ghana, from November 9-10. This championship, serving as a regional qualifier, brings together Africa’s finest teams and offers a chance for the top three teams to secure their spot in the 2025 Challenger Series, a pathway to the HSBC World Sevens Series.
Key Additions to the Squad
Head coach David Mwanja has meticulously selected a 12-member team, blending seasoned players with emerging talents to create a competitive and cohesive lineup. The squad includes fresh faces and notable returns, signaling Kenya’s intention to field a dynamic and experienced team in this year’s competition.
One of the key highlights is the call-up of Faith Livoi, who will make her debut on the continental stage. Livoi, known for her athletic prowess, is expected to add both depth and agility to the Lionesses’ lineup. Coach Mwanja is optimistic about her potential impact and believes she will bring fresh energy and resilience, making her a valuable asset to the team. Additionally, the squad welcomes back Stella Wafula, Grace Adhiambo, Christabel Lindo, and Judith Auma, each of whom brings invaluable experience and skill to the team, having missed some previous assignments. Their return is expected to fortify the team’s core, adding stability and tactical experience.
Another notable player included is Freshia Oduor, the top try-scorer at the Safari Sevens tournament. Oduor’s exceptional ability to find the try-line will be instrumental in advancing the Lionesses’ offense, as her agility and speed on the field are well-known strengths.
Pool Assignments and Competition Structure
The championship divides the participating teams into three pools. The Lionesses find themselves in Pool B, where they will face host country Ghana, Madagascar, and Mauritius. This grouping is anticipated to be fiercely competitive, as each team is eager to progress to the Challenger Series. However, Kenya’s recent form and robust squad selection position them as one of the favorites in the pool.
In Pool A, last year’s champions South Africa will face Tunisia, Zimbabwe, and Burkina Faso. South Africa, known for their strength and tactical proficiency, are expected to be the team to beat. Meanwhile, Pool C features Uganda, Zambia, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, completing a well-balanced tournament lineup that promises thrilling matchups and high-intensity games.
The top teams from each pool will advance to the knockout stages, with only three teams securing qualification for the 2025 Challenger Series. For Kenya, finishing in the top three is crucial, as it would allow them to join the pathway towards the HSBC World Sevens Series—a prestigious international rugby sevens tournament that would elevate Kenya’s standing in the global rugby landscape.
Coach Mwanja’s Vision and Strategy
David Mwanja, who has been at the helm of the Lionesses for several years, continues to emphasize a balanced approach that combines rigorous defense with rapid offensive transitions. Mwanja’s focus on versatility is evident in the selection of players who excel in multiple positions, allowing for fluid game tactics. Speaking about the squad, Mwanja expressed confidence in the team’s readiness for the upcoming challenge in Accra.
“We have a blend of experience and new talent, and each player has a role to play,” Mwanja noted. “Our preparation has been intensive, and we’re focused on executing our strategy with precision. Faith’s call-up is a testament to her hard work, and I believe she will fit seamlessly into the team dynamic. Returning players like Stella and Grace bring the experience we need in high-stakes games.”
Mwanja’s strategic approach leans heavily on the team’s ability to quickly adapt to game situations. With teams like South Africa showcasing strong performances historically, Mwanja is aware of the high standards his squad must meet. In training, the team has been sharpening their tackling, passing accuracy, and rucking techniques to ensure they remain competitive at every stage of the tournament.
Key Players to Watch
In addition to Livoi and Oduor, several players stand out as key figures in the Lionesses’ lineup:
- Sheila Chajira (Captain): As captain, Chajira brings leadership and extensive experience to the team. Her tactical awareness and strong decision-making skills are invaluable, especially in high-pressure moments. Chajira’s leadership will be crucial in guiding the Lionesses through tough matches and ensuring they stay focused on their ultimate goal.
- Christabel Lindo: Lindo’s return to the team is anticipated to strengthen the Lionesses’ defense. Known for her tackling strength and reliability, Lindo’s presence will add solidity to the team’s defensive setup, making it harder for opponents to breach their lines.
- Grace Adhiambo: Adhiambo’s versatility allows her to be a dynamic force on the field, both in offense and defense. Her return will reinforce the team’s core, and her experience in high-stakes games will be an asset.
- Freshia Oduor: As the top try-scorer in the recent Safari Sevens, Oduor has the potential to turn the tide in Kenya’s favor. Her speed and agility are key assets that the team will look to utilize when executing quick, counter-attacking plays.
Africa Women’s Rugby Sevens Cup: A Pathway to Glory
The Africa Women’s Rugby Sevens Cup is more than just a regional competition; it serves as a gateway for African teams to gain entry into the global stage. The top three teams will earn a spot in the Challenger Series, which is seen as the stepping stone to the HSBC World Sevens Series. For Kenya, securing one of these spots would be a remarkable achievement, opening up new opportunities for the players and raising the profile of women’s rugby in Kenya.
The Challenger Series represents an elite level of competition where teams from across the globe showcase their talents. Participation in this series would allow the Lionesses to test their mettle against some of the world’s best teams, providing invaluable experience and exposure that would contribute to the long-term growth and development of rugby in Kenya.
The Future of Women’s Rugby in Kenya
The inclusion of both emerging talents and seasoned players in the Lionesses’ squad reflects the broader development trajectory of women’s rugby in Kenya. Efforts by Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) to support and promote the women’s game are bearing fruit, with growing interest in women’s rugby at the grassroots level and increased participation in schools and local clubs.
KRU has implemented various initiatives to provide training and resources, fostering an environment where young girls can pursue rugby with aspirations of representing Kenya on the international stage. The Lionesses’ success in tournaments such as the Africa Sevens Championship serves as an inspiration to young athletes, highlighting the opportunities that exist within the sport.
Challenges and Prospects
While the Lionesses have a strong squad and a clear path forward, they will face stiff competition from teams like South Africa and Tunisia, who bring their own unique styles of play. South Africa, in particular, has a strong track record and will be a formidable opponent. However, Kenya’s recent performances, coupled with a well-rounded squad and experienced coaching staff, indicate that they are more than capable of competing at this level.
The support from fans and the growing popularity of rugby in Kenya add another layer of motivation for the Lionesses. The team is determined to not only represent Kenya but also to show the world the strength and spirit of Kenyan women in sports.
Conclusion
As the Kenya Lionesses prepare to take the field in Accra, they carry with them the hopes of a nation and the aspiration to elevate Kenyan women’s rugby to new heights. With a well-balanced squad and strategic focus, the Lionesses have a real chance at securing one of the coveted spots in the Challenger Series. The journey to Accra is both a challenge and an opportunity, one that the Lionesses are ready to embrace with passion, determination, and unwavering focus.
This Africa Sevens Championship promises to be a milestone in Kenyan rugby, one that could very well pave the way for the Lionesses to make their mark on the world stage.
