The Kenya Lionesses have finalized their squad for the upcoming 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup (RAWC), scheduled to take place in Antananarivo, Madagascar from June 5th to 16th.
The tournament set to be played in a round-robin format will see Kenya lock horns with hosts Madagascar, defending champions South Africa, and fierce border rivals Uganda.
The Lionesses will begin their campaign on June 7th at 3:00 PM EAT, taking on Madagascar at Stade Makis Stadium—the same side that edged them 29-22 in their RAWC 2024 opener. The Kenyan side will be looking to avenge last year’s defeat and begin the tournament on a strong note.
Their second fixture will see them face the formidable South African outfit on June 11th at 1:00 PM EAT. South Africa handed the Lionesses a heavy 63-5 defeat in the previous edition and remain the team to beat this year.
Kenya will close their campaign against regional rivals Uganda on June 15th at 1:00 PM EAT, in what could be a decisive fixture for final standings.
The trimming of the team followed a rigorous process where trials were held on Monday 12 May at the RFUEA Grounds, with 62 players turning up. From the trials, the selected players have been in camp before the final cut now which features a mix of youth and experience.
Captain Enid Ouma will lead the squad assisted by vice-captain Maureen Chebet and Edith Nariaka who will also serve as the vice-captain.
The squad also has several new faces such as Katundu Ivonee, Kimani Doris, and Okech Yvette who have been included for the first time, marking a fresh chapter for the Lionesses.
Kenya Lionesses squad for 2025 Rugby Africa Cup
Props: Jane Chanya, Natasha Emali, Katundu Ivonee, Khaleyi Noleen, Naomi Muhanji, Wesa Sheila
Hookers: Akinyi Mitchell, Knight Otwoma
Locks: Phoebe Akinyi, Maureen Chebet, Enid Ouma, Naomi Jelegat
Backrows: Naomi Amuguni, Sheila Chajira, Nelly Chikombe, Kimani Dorris
Scrum Halves: Edith Nariaka
Fly Halves: Ann Njeri, Grace Okulu
Wingers: Diana Awino, Freshia Awino, Okech Yvette, Juma Angel Charity
Centres: Christabel Lindo, Faith Livoi, Moreen Muritu, Stella Wafula
Full Back: Sinaida Mokaya
