Kenya’s Lionesses and Shujaa Gear Up for HSBC SVNS 2 Rounds in Montevideo and São Paulo
Kenya’s Lionesses and Shujaa Gear Up for HSBC SVNS 2 Rounds in Montevideo and São Paulo
Kenya’s Lionesses and Shujaa are heading into the second and third rounds of the HSBC SVNS 2 with high hopes, aiming to secure promotion to the top-tier HSBC SVNS 1 next season.
The Montevideo tournament in Uruguay runs from March 21–22, followed by São Paulo, Brazil on March 28–29, offering the teams a chance to build momentum after their opening leg in Nairobi.
The Lionesses have named a 13-player squad, including Faith Livoi and Christabel Lindo, who missed the Nairobi leg.
They join captain Sheila Chajira, Naomi Amuguni, Charity Nillah, Stellah Wafula, Edith Nariaka, Judith Auma, Sinaida Mokaya, Moreen Muritu, Janet Okello, Freshia Oduor, and Marvel Oswago. Chajira expressed gratitude to fans and sponsors, saying, “We are grateful for our fans’ incredible support in Nairobi.
Our focus now shifts to Uruguay and Brazil, where we aim to win our matches and secure qualification for Division One. We also thank Safaricom, through M-PESA, for their continued support in elevating our game both on and off the pitch.”
Shujaa announced a 14-man squad with key players George Ooro, Samuel Asati, Vincent Onyala, Kevin Wekesa, Nygel Amaitsa, Dennis Abukuse, John Okoth, Kevin Wambua, and Patrick Odongo.
Brian Tanga makes a comeback after a long injury layoff, while Gabriel Ayimba joins the national sevens side for the first time. Chrisant Ojwang, Festus Shiasi, Floyd Wabwire, and David Nyangige complete the squad. In Nairobi, Shujaa finished third behind the United States and Germany, while the Lionesses placed fifth.
Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa lauded both teams, emphasizing the importance of consistent support through the partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union.
“Shujaa and the Kenya Lionesses have once again shown the grit, discipline, and fighting spirit that define Kenyan rugby. With M-PESA supporting the teams, players can fully focus on their game.
We wish them the very best as they head to Uruguay and Brazil to showcase their skill and determination on the global stage.”
Under the two-year partnership with the Kenya Rugby Union, M-PESA provides monthly allowances, comprehensive medical insurance, airtime, and financial literacy programs, giving players the peace of mind to concentrate on rugby.
The HSBC SVNS 2 remains a global stage, showcasing fast-paced, high-intensity rugby sevens action, and Kenya is determined to make its mark.