Kenya Lionesses aiming for redemption at Rugby Africa Women’s 7s tourney

The 2024 Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens tournament kicks off on Saturday 9 to Sunday 10 November with Accra, Ghana hosting the prestigious event for the first time.

This year’s tournament is particularly significant as it serves as a qualifier for the 2025 Challenger Series, a stepping stone for top teams seeking World Rugby international competition.

Organized by Rugby Africa in partnership with the Government of Ghana, the event will bring together 12 national women’s teams including powerhouses like 2023 champions South Africa, Kenya, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, and hosts Ghana.

Kenya Lionesses are looking to bounce back after a challenging 2023 season that saw them reach the final stage in Monastir, Tunisia, only to fall narrowly to South Africa, missing a direct Olympics ticket by just five points in a 12-7 defeat.

Although they had a final shot at Olympic qualification via the repechage tournament, a 24-7 loss to China in Monaco ultimately dashed their hopes of competing in Paris.

The Lionesses are determined to make a statement in Accra and have been placed in Pool B, where they’ll face Madagascar, Ghana, and Mauritius.

Their rivalry with Madagascar adds extra intensity to this year's competition.

In their last two meetings, the Lionesses experienced a 29-22 loss in Madagascar in May during the Rugby Africa Women's Cup but came back strong with a commanding 63-19 win in a friendly at RFUEA Grounds in September.

Leading Kenya's squad is Sheila Chajira as captain, with teammates Christabel Lindo, Faith Livoi, Stella Wafula, and Diana Awino, among others.

The team is ready to fight for a top position and secure a spot on the international stage.

The 2024 tournament also sees South Africa aiming to regain core status after a 22-0 defeat to Spain in the SVNS.

The top two teams at the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens will secure spots in the 2025 Challenger Series, which could open further opportunities for global competition.

Kenya Legends set for thrilling action against UK Tritons

Lionesses squad for Rugby Africa Women’s 7s

1. Sheila Chajira (Captain) 2. Christabel Lindo 3. Faith Livoi 4. Stella Wafula 5. Diana Awino 6. Moreen Muritu 7. Sinaida Mokaya 8. Diana Kemunto 9. Judith Auma 10. Grace Adhiambo 11. Sharon Auma 12. Freshia Oduor

2024 Rugby Africa Women’s 7s Pools:

Pool A: South Africa, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso

Pool B: Kenya, Madagascar, Ghana, Mauritius

Pool C: Uganda, Zambia, Senegal, Côte d'Ivoire