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The Uganda Rugby Union has announced that Uganda will be sending three teams to participate in the prestigious 2024 Safari 7s tournament. The teams include the Uganda Emerging 7s men’s team and two women’s teams—the Lady Cranes 7s and the Lady Cranes Select.
The tournament, taking place from October 11th to 13th at Machakos Kenyatta Stadium, marks the first time the Safari 7s will be held outside of Nairobi, promising a fresh and thrilling experience for rugby fans.
In a bold move, men’s head coach Tolbert Onyango has selected a completely new lineup for the Uganda Emerging 7s, with none of the 12 players who secured a third-place finish last year returning.
Among the fresh talent is Platinum Credit Heathens RFC’s Malcolm Okello, the top scorer in the recently concluded National 7s series. He is joined by Robin Odrua and Karim Arinaitwe, both of whom bring international experience from Uganda’s victorious run at the International Rugby 7s tournament in South Africa this September.
Speaking on the squad, Onyango expressed confidence in his selections:
“This year’s team brings in fresh talent that I believe can compete at the highest level. Although it’s a completely new squad, the hunger and commitment these players have shown all season make me confident they will represent Uganda with pride and deliver a strong performance.”
Uganda has been drawn into Pool B of the men’s competition, where they will face the Morans, Kenya Harlequins, Shogun, and Redwailers.
On the women’s side, Uganda will be represented by the defending champion Lady Cranes 7s and the Uganda Emerging 7s.
The Lady Cranes are fielding seven players from their 2023 winning squad, including key players Lona Sandra Amoli, Namulala Unity, and Maimuna Nassozi.
The Lady Cranes Select team features top performers from the National 7s series, including Yvonne Najjuma, a member of last year’s winning squad.
Coach Charles Onen expressed his optimism ahead of the tournament:
“We’re excited about the competition and our preparation. The players have worked hard, and this tournament will give us the opportunity to test new combinations as we continue our growth and aim for success at the Africa Women’s Sevens next year.”
Uganda’s women’s teams will compete in a single pool of six teams alongside Costablanca Barbarians, Shogun, Kenya Lionesses, and Kenya Cubs.
Notably, Ugandan stars Charlotte Mudoola, Emily Lekuru, and Susan Adong will make special appearances, playing for the Shogun team.
Additionally, Umar Balikanda has been selected to represent Uganda as a match official at the tournament, a testament to his expertise on one of Africa’s largest rugby stages.
The action kicks off on Friday at 2:00 PM, with the men’s team opening their campaign against Kenya Harlequins, while the Lady Cranes will face Shogun, and the Lady Cranes Select take on Kenya Lionesses.
The Safari 7s remains one of Africa’s premier rugby events, and Uganda is poised for another strong showing.
Uganda Emerging 7s Squad: Robin Odrua, Julius Opio, Arnold Ocen, Andrew Odhiambo, Edward Emiemu, Patrick Okello, Mark William Lukwago, Malcom Okello, Gift Wokorach, Karim Arinaitwe (Captain), Humphrey Ndahura, Daniel
Otim
Team Officials: Tolbert Onyango (head coach), Otim Allan (S&C Coach), Arinda Davis (Team Doctor), Michael Wandera
(Team Manager)
Lady Cranes Squad:Amoli Lona Sandra, Namukwaya Fazira, Namulala Unity, Auma Grace, Maimuna Nasozi, Ayot Mary
Gloria, Nakuya Agnes, Namabiro Lydia, Nandudu Jannat, Kateesa Gertrude Junior, Tina Akello Molly
Lady Cranes Select Squad: Apio Phillies, Ainebyona Juliet, Tino Esther, Angayika Comfort, Babirye Florence, Najjuma Yvonne, Nambozo Mastula, Samiya Ayikoru, Wilembe Gladys, Anirwoth Sunday, Namulimbwa Habiba, Anek Patricia
Women Team Officials:Onen Charles (head Coach), Kigongo Ssebalamu (S&C Coach), Mayeku Nelson (Physio), Winny
Atyang (Team Manager)
