Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s Lady Cranes Sevens showcased exceptional resilience and talent as they secured bronze at the Rugby Africa Women’s 7s Championship. An achievement that further underscores the value of sports as a tool for national branding and international engagement under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Public Diplomacy pillar.
The team opened the tournament in a dominant fashion, defeating Burkina Faso 50–0 before edging Zambia 20–14 in the group stages to earn a place in the quarterfinals. Their strong form continued with a convincing 31–12 victory over Tunisia, sending them into the semifinals with optimism and national pride.
Their quest for gold, however, was halted by the hosts, Kenya Lionesses, who narrowly won 17–10 in a tightly contested match. Despite this setback, the Lady Cranes supported and celebrated for their role in elevating Uganda’s image abroad they regrouped with determination for the bronze medal playoff.
Uganda began the third-place match with intensity and tactical precision, quickly scoring three converted tries through Peace Lekuru, Samiya Ayikoru, and Grace Nabaggala. Although Madagascar replied with a well-worked team try to narrow the gap to 21–7, the Lady Cranes extended their dominance through additional tries from Suzan Adong and Lydia Namabiro, pushing the score to 33–12.
The introduction of Yvonne Najjuma injected renewed energy, her powerful runs creating vital space to score under the posts. Uganda remained in full control until the final whistle, sealing a well-deserved podium finish and reinforcing the country’s growing influence in regional women’s rugby.
Lydia Namabiro stood out as one of the tournament’s brightest talents, emerging as the Top Try Scorer, an achievement celebrated by the Uganda Olympic Committee and highlighted by the Public Diplomacy as a proud moment for Uganda on the continental stage.
Through such sporting triumphs, Public Diplomacy continues to leverage sports diplomacy to strengthen Uganda’s global presence, inspire youth, and promote unity, resilience, and national excellence.
