The Uganda Rugby Union (URU) has officially flagged off three national rugby teams for upcoming international assignments, marking a significant step in the country’s continued rise in African rugby.
The teams—Rugby Cranes XVs, Rugby Cranes 7s, and Lady Cranes XVs—are all set to represent Uganda in various continental competitions. The Rugby Cranes XVs are headed to Namibia and South Africa for a regional training camp as part of their preparations for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, which will be hosted in Uganda. The Cup also acts as a pathway to Rugby World Cup qualification. While in camp, the team is scheduled to play a series of friendly matches against teams such as Namibia, the Limpopo Blue Bulls, and Airlink Pumas.
Meanwhile, the Rugby Cranes 7s, who are the reigning Rugby Africa Men’s 7s champions, will travel to Port Louis, Mauritius, to defend their title. The 2025 edition of the tournament is set for June 21–22 at the Labourdonnais Sports Club and will feature stiff competition from 11 other African nations.
On the women’s front, the Lady Cranes XVs—fresh off a stellar performance at the Rugby Africa Women’s Division I tournament—have earned a spot in the elite Rugby Africa Women’s Performance Division. They will face Kenya, South Africa, and Madagascar in a tightly contested tournament scheduled for June 11th to 15th.
Speaking at the flag-off, URU President Godwin Kayangwe expressed confidence in the squads:
“All three teams have shown strong preparation and character. The task ahead is not easy, but we have full confidence in our players and staff to represent Uganda with excellence, discipline, and pride.”
Ambrose Tashobya, Chairman of the National Council of Sports, praised the teams’ progression:
“Uganda’s presence across all formats—15s and 7s, men and women—is a clear indicator of the growth of rugby as a national sport. These teams are not just representing URU; they’re representing the flag. We commend URU leadership and the players’ commitment, and we assure them of our full support.”
