The Victoria Pearls are set to participate in the 10th edition of the Kwibuka Tournament, taking place in Kigali, Rwanda, from May 30 to June 8. Organized by the Rwanda Cricket Association, the annual women’s cricket tournament commemorates the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
This year’s tournament features eight teams, with Zimbabwe, Cameroon, and Malawi joining for the first time. The other participants include hosts Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Botswana, and Nigeria. Uganda and Kenya have each won the tournament three times, with Rwanda being the defending champions.
Uganda’s squad is a mix of youth and experience, preparing for the U-19 World Cup Qualifiers later this year. The 14-player squad includes six U-19 players, aiming to gain valuable exposure at the Kwibuka Tournament. The team, led by Janet Mbabazi with Rita Musamali as vice-captain, last won the tournament in 2016.
Head Coach Lawrence Ssematimba, alongside Yusuf Nanga, Ivan Kakande, and Team Manager Lelia Namaganda, will guide the team.
The Victoria Pearls will face strong competition, particularly from Zimbabwe, Nigeria, Kenya, and the hosts Rwanda. The tournament holds international T20i status, with teams vying for ranking points.
The Victoria Pearls will depart Kampala for Kigali by road on May 28.
The Team: Janet Mbabazi (Captain) , Rita Musamali, Consy Aweko, Kevin Awino, Stephanie Nampiina, Immaculate Nakisuyi, Sarah Walaza, Malisa Ariokot, Lorna Anyait, Patricia Timong, Akurut Asumin, Proscovia Alako, Jimia Muhammad, Immaculate Nandera,
Team Officials:Lawrence Ssematimba (Head Coach), Yusuf Nanga, Ivan Kakande, Lelia Namaganda Ondeko (Team Manager)
