Mwanja calls for total focus as Lionesses begin Challenger challenge in Cape Town

The Kenya Lionesses are determined to make history, but head coach Dennis Mwanja is ensuring they stay grounded.

As they prepare for their bid to qualify for the HSBC World Rugby 7s Series, with Leg 1 set for March 1 –2, and Leg 2 on March 7–8, 2025 in Cape Town, South Africa, Mwanja has emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between confidence and caution.

The KCB Rugby coach is leading the charge as the Lionesses aim to secure a spot in the global rugby elite and the Kenyan side is fully aware of the high stakes ahead.

“The team is in good spirits and confident of a strong performance,” Mwanja stated.

“But, we don’t want to burden ourselves with the pressure of ‘must-win’ expectations. This is a marathon, not a sprint. We take each game as it comes, knowing that Cape Town is just the first step in a three-stage qualification journey,” added Mwanja.

The Kenyan side has been placed in Pool D alongside Poland and Samoa, two formidable opponents.

To keep their HSBC 7s dream alive, they must finish in the top four overall, securing a place in the all-important HSBC SVNS play-off tournament in Los Angeles.

Last season, heartbreak struck as Kenya fell just short, finishing fifth overall — one spot outside qualification. Poland clinched the fourth slot and went on to the final shootout in Madrid, leaving the Lionesses hungry for redemption.

 This time, they are determined to break that barrier and claim their place among the world's best.

“We believe in our abilities, but we must stay disciplined,” Mwanja emphasized.

“Overconfidence can be just as dangerous as doubt. Everyone has a role to play, and if we stick to our game plan, we’ll be in a strong position.”

Adding an extra layer of intrigue, Kenya recently gained a confidence boost by edging out Poland 19-12 in a friendly at RFUEA Grounds. While the victory bolstered morale, Mwanja refuses to read too much into it, knowing the real test lies ahead in Cape Town.

As the Lionesses prepare to roar, their ambition is clear — secure HSBC 7s qualification and cement their status among the world’s top teams