Uganda’s senior women’s cricket team, the Victoria Pearls, are heading to Rwanda to defend their title at the 11th edition of the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, which gets underway on June 3 at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium in Kigali.
The Victoria Pearls have won the Kwibuka Tournament three times and finished as runners-up five times. With strong contenders like Nigeria and Rwanda in the mix, Uganda will be tested.
The annual event, held in memory of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, has grown into one of Africa’s premier women’s cricket tournaments since its inception in 2014. This year’s edition brings together nine nations: Rwanda, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Brazil, Cameroon, Malawi, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe Emerging.
Uganda, the defending champions, will open their campaign against Cameroon on June 4. The tournament follows a single round-robin format, with the top four teams advancing to the semifinals on June 13. The grand final is slated for June 14.
Led by captain Janet Mbabazi, the Victoria Pearls are aiming to retain their title while building momentum ahead of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers later this year in Namibia. Currently ranked 17th in the world in T20I rankings, Uganda is keen to strengthen its global standing.
“We look not only to defend the title but also use this tournament as preparation for the qualifiers and to build confidence,” said Mbabazi. “Rwanda is like our second home. We have fond memories there and any opportunity to showcase our skills is always welcome.”
Head Coach Deus Muhumuza echoed the captain’s sentiments, noting the squad’s focus on “batting mindset, disciplined bowling, and agile fielding,” following an intensive 1.5-month training program.
The 14-player Ugandan squad features a blend of seasoned talent and exciting newcomers. Among the new additions are Teddy Oyella, Kevin Amuge, Sarah Tino, and Proscovia Alako, who will be looking to make a mark.
Notable omissions due to academic commitments include Irene Mutoni, Malisa Ariokot, Lorna Anyait, and Immaculate Nandera.
Uganda Squad – Victoria Pearls (Kwibuka Women’s T20, 2025)
Janet Mbabazi (Captain)
Esther Iloku
Kevin Awino
Ritah Musamali (Vice Captain)
Immaculate Nakisuuyi
Stephanie Nampiina
Proscovia Alako
Sarah Walaza
Consy Aweko
Sarah Akiteng
Kevin Amuge
Phiona Kulume
Teddy Oyella
Sarah Tino
Uganda Fixtures – Kwibuka 2025 (EAT):
June 4: Uganda vs Cameroon – 10:45 AM
June 5: Uganda vs Zimbabwe Emerging – 10:30 AM
June 6: Uganda vs Sierra Leone – 10:45 AM
June 7: Uganda vs Brazil – 10:30 AM
June 8: Uganda vs Malawi – 10:30 AM
June 10: Uganda vs Tanzania – 10:30 AM
June 11: Uganda vs Nigeria – 10:30 AM
June 12: Uganda vs Rwanda – 10:45 AM
