Six students in as Lionesses squad for HSBC Division 2 is unveiled

Kenya Lionesses interim head coach Simon Odongo has unveiled a 26-player squad that will begin preparations for the 2026 HSBC SVNS 2, scheduled for Saturday, 14 February 2026, in Nairobi.

The announcement marks the start of an important chapter for the national women’s sevens team, as they gear up for a return to the global arena.

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The Lionesses last featured in competitive action during the Africa Women’s 7s in November, where they reached the final but fell 22–0 to South Africa.

Despite the disappointment, the technical bench has opted for continuity, retaining 14 of the 15 players who competed in the tournament.

Among the familiar faces is foreign-based utility back Grace Okulu, whose experience has proven invaluable to the squad.

Speed merchant Janet Okello also makes her return after completing her playing spell in Japan, adding firepower and much-needed international pedigree to the backline.

Eleven emerging players, standouts from the local league, have been drafted in, following impressive performances across the season and eye-catching displays at the Safari 7s.

Their inclusion injects fresh energy into the setup as the coach seeks to build depth ahead of a demanding season.

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The majority of the players in the squad are within the 24-year-old bracket, a balance that aligns with the Kenya Rugby Union’s long-term vision of creating a sustainable and competitive national team pipeline.

A key component of that development strategy is the integration of young talent.

Six high school players, who excelled at the national school games, have been selected for a two-week alignment camp.

The teenagers will continue to train with the senior setup during holiday camps, except during exam periods, providing them with early exposure to elite-level standards.

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The Lionesses have already kicked off their December training block, focusing on conditioning and fine-tuning skills before taking a short break for the festive season.

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With their home tournament set for February, preparations will ramp up in January as the team seeks to make a strong statement on their return to the international stage.

Kenya Lionesses squad

1.Naomi Amuguni – Mwamba

2.Stella Wafula – Impala

3.Charity Nillah – National Youth Service

4.Gloria Matasio – Shamberere

5.Moreen Muritu – Kenya Harlequins

6.Christabel Lindo – Impala

7.Angel Salamba– Kenya Harlequins

8.Sheila Chajira – Impala

9.Phoebe Akinyi – Northern Suburbs

10.Maureen Chebet – Mwamba

11.Judith Auma – Impala

12.Edith Nariaka – Mwamba

13.Maxine Abuga – Kenya Harlequins

14.Tracy Msungu– Nakuru RFC

15.Sinaida Nyachio – Mwamba

16.Ann Namunyak– Ruck It

17.Faith Achieng– Northern Suburbs

18.Beatrice Osimbo – Shamberere

19.Janet Okello – Unattached

20.Marvel Oswago– Rongo University

21.Faith Livoi – Mwamba

22.Grace Okulu (Racing 92, France)

23.Freshia Awino – Nakuru RFC

24.Nelly Chikombe – Impala

25.Diana Awino – Impala

26.Yvette Okech – Northern Suburbs