Uganda’s Lady Cranes showcased their growing dominance in African rugby, clinching the bronze medal at the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens after a commanding 38–12 victory over Madagascar in the third-place playoff.
The result capped a remarkable tournament for Uganda, firmly establishing the Lady Cranes as one of the continent’s rising powers in women’s rugby. Fans, officials, and the Uganda Rugby Union (URU) lauded the team for its consistency, skill, and determination throughout the competition.
“Proud to be African Bronze Medalists!” the URU celebrated, highlighting the team’s resilience and their impressive campaign.
Uganda’s journey to the podium began in the pool stages with a spectacular 50–0 thrashing of Burkina Faso, followed by a hard-fought 20–14 win over Zambia to secure a quarterfinal spot. The Lady Cranes maintained their momentum in the knockouts, defeating Tunisia 31–12 to earn a place in the semifinals. Their dream of gold was narrowly thwarted by hosts Kenya Lionesses, who edged Uganda 17–10 in a closely contested battle.
Refusing to be discouraged, the Lady Cranes responded emphatically in the bronze medal match, overpowering Madagascar with a clinical 38–12 performance to claim third place.
Uganda’s Lydia Namabiro stood out as one of the tournament’s brightest performers, finishing as the Top Try Scorer and earning accolades from the Uganda Olympic Committee for her attacking flair and consistency. Jubilant scenes unfolded as the team received their bronze medals, symbolizing not only their achievement in Nairobi but also the growing prominence of women’s rugby in Uganda.
The Lady Cranes’ success underscores a new era for Ugandan women’s rugby, combining experienced campaigners with emerging talent. With their eyes now on future continental competitions, the team continues to cement its status among Africa’s elite.
