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Uganda’s Lady Rugby Cranes Sevens have received a significant boost ahead of the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens Championship with the return of talismanic centre and former captain Peace Lekuru.
The tournament, set for November 15–16 at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi, Kenya, will see Uganda battle for continental glory and a potential ticket to the 2026 World Rugby HSBC Sevens Challenger Series.
Peace Lekuru in action
Photo by Hassan Wamwanyi
Lekuru’s inclusion could not have come at a better time as the dynamic and powerful backline is fresh off signing a professional contract with York Valkyrie in England’s Betfred Women’s Super League marking a historical milestone as the first Ugandan to play in the Betfred Women’s Supper League. She brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and professionalism to the Ugandan side.
Head coach Charles Onen has named a 12-player squad blending experienced campaigners with emerging talent. The side retains much of the core group that featured in the 2024 Safari 7s, with just a few strategic changes.
Alongside Lekuru, Samiya Ayikoru also returns to Sevens duty after a stint in the 15s format, adding depth and versatility to the backline. Meanwhile, Unity Namulala steps in to fill the void left by the absent Comfort Angayika and Tina Akello, both unavailable due to injuries and academic commitments.
Captain Agnes Nakuya will once again lead from the front, supported by vice-captain Lydia Namabiro, as the team seeks to combine physicality in the forwards with speed and creativity in the backs.
Uganda will compete in Group C, facing Zambia and Burkina Faso in the pool stages before progressing to the knockout rounds. With a top-two finish securing qualification for the 2026 Challenger Series, every match will carry high stakes.
Uganda’s Squad for the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens
Forwards:
• Lydia Namabiro (vc)
• Yvonne Najjuma
• Fazira Namukwaya
• Agnes Nakuya (c)
• Grace Nabaggala
• Suzan Adong
Backs:
• Sandra Amoli Lona
• Juliet Nandawula
• Peace Lekuru
• Janat Nandudu
• Samiya Ayikoru
• Unity Namulala
