Coach Odongo urges caution as Lionesses gear for Rugby Africa Cup

Kenya Lionesses head coach Simon Odongo has issued a warning ahead of the 2026 Rugby Africa Women's Cup Performance Division tournament as Kenya prepares to host the continental showpiece at the RFUEA Grounds.

Odongo acknowledged the threat posed by reigning champions South Africa in the tournament, scheduled to run from May 21 -31, which will bring together four of Africa’s top women’s rugby nations: Kenya, South Africa, Uganda, and Madagascar for regional supremacy and valuable ranking points.

The Lionesses finished second in the previous edition and will target a step up to the top of the podium this time.

Their campaign begins on Saturday, 23 May, with a regional derby against Uganda, before facing Madagascar on Wednesday, 27 May. The final and potentially decisive fixture will see Kenya lock horns with defending champions South Africa on Sunday, 31 May.

South Africa is the team to beat after a dominant run in the previous edition of the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, where they sealed the title with a commanding 61–17 win over Madagascar.

Despite Kenya’s ambition, Odongo is quick to acknowledge the challenge ahead, particularly against the tournament favourites.

“Preparations are progressing well so far. We currently have 35 women in camp, including the Sevens players, and I think that is a big milestone for us because next year will be crucial with both the World Cup and Olympic qualifiers coming up. This build-up period is therefore very important for both the 15s and 7s teams,” Odongo said.

Speaking on the South Africa challenge, Odongo was realistic about the enormity of the task at hand, but believes the gap can be closed.

“Against South Africa, we lost by just five points, and I believe they were the only team we lost to last year. Having featured at the World Cup, they will definitely be a formidable side. For us, the focus is on taking our chances better and reducing the margin. If we can convert our opportunities and perhaps even force a draw, that would be positive, but we will give our very best,” he said.

Kenya will head into the competition with confidence, buoyed by home support and familiarity with conditions at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi.

Preliminary Fixture Focus (May 2026)

May 23: Kenya vs. Uganda

May 27: Kenya vs. Madagascar

May 31: Kenya vs. South Africa