Kenya’s ‘La Divas’ step up preparations ahead of UAE Netball Cup

The national women’s netball team, La Divas, has intensified preparations ahead of the inaugural UAE Netball Cup scheduled for June 15-21, 2025 in Dubai.

The invitational tournament, which will double up as the 2026 Commonwealth Games qualifier, has attracted six nations ranked between 18th and 30th in the world; hosts UAE, USA, Republic of Ireland, Singapore, Kenya, and Namibia.

Kenya is currently ranked 25th globally and the team is aiming to gain valuable ranking points under the guidance of Ugandan head coach Mugisha Ali, who has been with the team for the past three years.

“This event is crucial as it acts as a build-up to the Commonwealth Games qualifiers. We have to keep pushing to secure as many points as possible. I have seen the level of form amongst the girls, I can say we will get good results in Dubai. We are not only eyeing victory but also aiming to cement our status as a rising force in international netball,” said coach Ali.

Long-serving captain Perin Simiyu expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, praising recent improvements in the training facilities.

“With the support we’ve received from the government, we’re confident and ready to battle it out. The girls have been working hard, and training at the Ulinzi Complex indoor arena has helped us adapt to indoor play, unlike before, when we trained in outdoors grounds and go out and played indoors during international matches,” said Simiyu, who plays as a goal defence.

She added that the team’s primary goal is to get points that will enable them qualify for the 2025 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Prolific goal-shooter Hellen Sinoya said team morale is high, especially with the injection of new talent.

“The spirit is high during training. The younger players who have joined the team are eager to prove themselves, which is a great sign for continuity,” noted Sinoya.

The Kenya Netball Federation (KNF) Secretary General Millicent Busolo confirmed that the ‘Divas’ will also feature I upcoming tournaments in Malawi, Zimbabwe, and Trinidad & Tobago as part of their strategic build-up to the 2026 Glasgow Games.