The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as Uganda, the reigning champions and three-time winners, head to Kigali for the 11th edition of the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Cricket Tournament from June 4th to 14th, 2025. Uganda is on a quest to clinch a record-equalling fourth title against an expanded, fiercely competitive field of nine nations.
Since its inception, the Kwibuka tournament has been a cornerstone in the rise of women’s cricket across Africa and beyond. With Kenya holding the tournament record at four titles, Uganda now stands just one title triumph away from matching that feat. Uganda enters this year’s competition with sky-high confidence, fresh off last year’s dramatic triumph over Zimbabwe Emerging in a pulsating final that solidified their status as a continental powerhouse.
Uganda’s squad for Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament 2025:
Janet Mbabazi (C), Esther Iloku, Kevin Awino, Ritah Musamali (VC), Immaculate Nakisuuyi, Stephanie Nampiina, Proscovia Alako, Sarah Walaza, Consy Aweko, Sarah Akiteng, Kevin Amuge, Phiona Kulume, Teddy Oyella, Sarah Tino
Captain Janet Mbabazi will marshal a squad that blends seasoned campaigners with promising debutants. Notably, Proscovia Alako returns to reinforce the batting lineup after missing their recent Capricorn Series, while the fresh faces of Kevin Amuge, Sarah Tino, and Teddy Oyella signal Uganda’s ongoing investment in youth and depth.
The expanded pool for 2025 presents no easy group. Uganda will spar with regional rivals Tanzania and Nigeria, crucial tests ahead of the T20 Global Qualifiers in Namibia later this year. But dark horses Malawi and Sierra Leone, as well as hosts Rwanda, add intrigue to the mix. Rwanda, famously, denied Uganda the 2023 final and have turned every subsequent encounter into a fierce rivalry.
The Victoria Pearls’ opening fixture, on June 4th against Cameroon, promises an early test of depth and strategy before challenging encounters with Zimbabwe Emerging, Brazil, and the formidable Tanzanian lineup.
Uganda’s fixtures:
|
Date |
Time |
Opponent |
Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
|
June 4 |
9:30 AM |
Cameroon |
Gahanga B Oval |
|
June 5 |
9:30 AM |
Zimbabwe Emerging |
Gahanga Main Oval |
|
June 6 |
9:30 AM |
Sierra Leone |
Gahanga B Oval |
|
June 7 |
9:30 AM |
Brazil |
Gahanga Main Oval |
|
June 8 |
9:30 AM |
Malawi |
Gahanga Main Oval |
|
June 10 |
9:30 AM |
Tanzania |
Gahanga Main Oval |
|
June 11 |
9:30 AM |
Nigeria |
Gahanga Main Oval |
|
June 12 |
9:30 AM |
Rwanda |
Gahanga B Oval |
Knockout matches and the finals follow from June 13-14.
Beyond chasing silverware, Uganda will use the Kwibuka tournament as a springboard for their T20 Global Qualifier campaign. The ability to rotate players, test combinations, and compete in high-pressure situations will be invaluable for the Victoria Pearls’ long-term ambitions. The team departs Uganda by road on Saturday night, carrying the hopes of a nation and a determination to once again shine on cricket’s growing global stage.
With a rich blend of experience, fresh talent, and a burning desire for redemption and glory, the Victoria Pearls promise to be one of the must-watch stories of Kwibuka 2025. Can Janet Mbabazi’s side write a new chapter in their storied history and secure a record-matching fourth title? The countdown is on, and all roads lead to Gahanga.
