Kenya Lionesses are geared up to face hosts Madagascar in their opening game of the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup (RAWC).

The highly anticipated match will take place on Saturday, June 7, at Stade Makis, kicking off at 3:00 pm.

Last year, the Lionesses suffered a narrow 29-22 loss to Madagascar in the opening round, a result they are determined to overturn. With a direct qualification spot for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup on the line, the stakes could not be higher.

Squad selection highlights

Coach Dennis Mwanja has named a strong 23-woman squad, blending experienced players with dynamic young talent. Captain Enid Ouma leads the charge, supported by front-row players Natasha Emali, Naomi Muhanji, and Jane Chanya.

The Lionesses on duty tomorrow for the Madagascar assignment.
Catch the live action on https://t.co/DuuvGd2UP2.#Lionesses #2025RAWC pic.twitter.com/bdkA2NZMnd

— Kenya Rugby (@OfficialKRU) June 6, 2025

The second row features Phoebe Akinyi alongside Assistant Captain Maureen Chebet, while the back row includes Naomi Amuguni, Enid Ouma, and Sheila Chajira, last season’s Prinsloo 7s MVP.

The backline offers pace and precision with Faith Livoi and Freshia Owino on the wings, complemented by Stella Wafula, Moreen Muritu, and Sinaida Nyachio.

Coach’s confidence boost

Assistant head coach Simon Odongo expressed strong confidence in the squad, saying:

“Every player has been sharp in training. But the 23 we’ve selected have looked sharpest this week and are ready to take on Madagascar. We are treating every game as a final, and as always, you go with the sharpest in camp.

Doris Kimani has really stood out in training and earns her debut as she brings a lot of hunger and energy to the squad, and has a lot of positivity.

Noleen and Njeri have been in the squad before but offer a different attacking threat once they come in, as we always want to take the game to another level every time. They also cover most positions on the field; hence, they are good cover options to have for any coach.”

Road ahead

Following the Madagascar opener, the Kenya Lionesses will face defending champions South Africa on June 11 and conclude their campaign against Uganda on June 15, with both matches starting at 1:00 pm.

The team is focused on making a strong impact throughout the tournament, aiming for both redemption and qualification success.