KRU unveils Lionesses squad for 2026 HSBC SVNS Division 2 showdown in Nairobi
By Joel Masibo, February 9, 2026The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has named a strong and balanced Lionesses squad that will do duty in the ladies category at the 2026 HSBC SVNS Division Two tournament set for Saturday, February 14, and Sunday, February 15, 2026, at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi.
The two-day event will see the national women’s and men’s rugby sevens teams take on elite international opposition in front of a home crowd, as they push for an impressive outing in the global sevens circuit.
Lionesses squad
With home advantage and a motivated squad, the Lionesses will be aiming to make a strong statement on Kenyan soil. The squad blends experience and youthful energy, led by captain Sheila Chajira, with Freshia Oduor serving as vice-captain.
Key players named in the lineup include Naomi Amuguni, Moreen Muritu, Sinaida Nyachio, Edith Nariaka, Janet Okello, Marvel Oswago, Charity Nilah, Grace Okullu, Stella Wafula and Phoebe Akinyi.
Several players return to the squad following impressive club and international performances, offering head coach Simon Odongo a wealth of options across all departments.
The technical bench is reinforced by Jeff Onyango as strength and conditioning coach and Camilyn Oyuayo as team manager, while Levyce Kityi and John Elly will oversee physiotherapy duties to ensure the squad remains in peak condition throughout the tournament.
The Nairobi leg of the HSBC SVNS Division Two is expected to draw large crowds, with Kenyan fans eager to rally behind the Lionesses as they seek to climb the global sevens rankings. Playing at Nyayo National Stadium provides the perfect stage for the team to showcase their growth, resilience and attacking flair.
Speaking on a local TV interview on Monday, February 9, 2026, Lionesses player Grace Okullu expressed optimism about the team’s prospects, noting that the competition offers a perfect platform to showcase both their talent and Kenya’s growing stature in global rugby.
“It’s going to be a good tournament for us,” said Okullu. “This tournament will enable us to showcase Kenya as a sports tourism destination as well as a sporting nation.”
Lionesses ready
Okullu added that the team is not overly fixated on any single opponent, including familiar rivals South Africa, whom Kenya has beaten several times in past encounters.
“We’re not changing anything when it comes to South Africa. We have beaten them once, twice, thrice — it’s not the first time we’re going to encounter them. Our main focus right now is not only South Africa,” she said.