Kenya Lionesses squad that will be representing the nation in the 2026 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup set to take place from May 21 to May 31, 2026, at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi, Kenya has been named.

The tournament, regarded as the top-tier women’s 15s rugby competition on the continent, will feature hosts Kenya, defending champions South Africa, Uganda and Madagascar.

The Kenya Lionesses squad will feature a blend of experienced players and emerging talent as Kenya targets the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup title on home soil.

Co-captains Natasha Emali and Judith Auma headline the team, which also includes key players such as Janet Okello, Sheila Chajira, Phoebe Otieno and Faith Livoi.

The Lionesses head into the competition aiming to improve on last year’s second-place finish after narrowly missing out on the title.

Kenya will begin their campaign against regional rivals Uganda on Saturday, May 23, before facing Madagascar on May 27 and South Africa on the final day of the tournament on May 31.

Beyond continental honours, the tournament will also play a key role in qualification pathways for next year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup qualifiers.

This year’s edition will also determine which team remains in the top performance division and which side drops to the second tier, where Tunisia awaits promotion.

Kenya Lionesses squad: Jane Chanya, Jascenta Musakali, Natasha Emali, Sheila Wesa, Valentine Otieno, Naomy Muhanji, Knight Otwoma, Phoebe Otieno, Charity Oteng’o, Naomi Jelagat, Edith Sitati, Nelly Chikombe, Naomi Amuguni, Sheila Chajira, Maria Gorette, Atieno Awuor, Marvel Oswago, Judith Auma, Edith Nariaka, Maureen Muritu, Faith Livoi, Janet Okello, Angel Salamba, Yvette Okech, Stella Wafula, Freshia Oduor, Tracey Montex, and Sinaida Mokaya.