Odongo calls up eight debutants as Lionesses brace for Rugby Africa Cup

Kenya Lionesses players during a training session at Moi Stadium, Kasarani/HANDOUT

Flanker Maria Gorette of Guins Queens leads eight debutant in the national 15s team, Lionesses, as head coach Simon Odongo named a team of 28 for the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup set for RFUEA grounds, Nairobi, from May 21-31.

Gorette will be joined by Jascenta Musakali, Charity Oteng’o, Edith Sitati, Angel Salamba,Tracy Montex,Atieno Awuor and Marvel Oswago.

Odongo said their inclusion reflects a growing pipeline of talent from local competitions and development structures, with selectors casting the net wide to reward form and potential. 

He expects the new players to inject energy into the squad while building for the future. 

Kenya will open their campaign against Uganda on May 23, face Madagascar on 27 and complete the schedule with a possible overall decider against defending champions South Africa.

Odongo said: “We looked at players who have featured in past tournaments and those who have stood out in the Kenya Cup. We’ve also brought in Sevens players to strengthen the squad.”

The head coach, meanwhile, called on fans to rally behind the team, noting that strong support will be key as the Lionesses push for international consistency.

“We want to compete at the highest level and qualify for the World Cup,” Odongo said. “Playing top teams helps us grow and attracts support that will improve the women’s game.”

Lionesses captain, Natasha Emali, believes in the squad, highlighting improved preparations ahead of the tournament.

“It’s always an honour to represent Kenya. We started training early and the camps helped us build chemistry,” she said.

She backed the debutants to rise to the occasion, while urging young girls to take up the sport and remain patient.

“Keep working hard and don’t give up. Your time will come,” she said.

Elsewhere, the Kenya Rugby Union has intensified efforts to build a structured pathway from grassroots to elite rugby, including expanded school competitions and coach development programmes.

"This year, eight girls' teams competed at the national school games in Kisumu, up from four last year. We are also investing in technical support by training teachers to Level One and Two coaching standards so they can better nurture talent at school level," he said.

Forwards: Jane Chanya, Jascenta Musakali, Natasha Emali (co-captain), 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