York Valkyrie Director of Rugby, Lindsay Anfield, has praised Peace Lekuru as a trailblazer for African women’s rugby after confirming her signing from Uganda Rugby League.
“Peace has been on our radar since we saw her compete in the Ugandan national finals in 2023,” said Anfield, recalling the Valkyrie’s tour to Uganda. “She is an experienced rugby player, strong and athletic, with the desire to compete at the highest level.”
Lekuru becomes the first player from Uganda to sign for a team in the Betfred Women’s Super League. Her arrival marks a milestone for York RLFC’s growing partnership with the Uganda Rugby League, which began formally in 2023.
“To see her in a Valk shirt is a poignant moment for our club,” Anfield continued. “She’s a real trailblazer and fully embraces her role as an inspiration for those who’ll follow in her footsteps. We’re delighted to bring her on this journey to York.”
Anfield, who has been supporting rugby league development in Africa for nearly two decades, helped lay the foundation for this partnership through her long-standing involvement with the Tag Rugby Trust. She first travelled to Africa in 2006 and has since led rugby tours to Zambia, Uganda and Kenya.
Lekuru herself came through the Tag Rugby Trust, eventually becoming a leader in the programme. Back home, she captained Entebbe Baleen to victory in the 2023 Uganda Rugby League finals.
She could make her York debut at the upcoming Women’s Nines Festival.
