Lionesses coach Odongo confident ahead of Africa Rugby Cup tour

 Lionesses head coach Simon Odongo is confident they are well prepared for the Rugby Africa Women’s Sevens 2025, which will be hosted in Kenya at the RFUEA grounds, from November 15 to 16.

Speaking on Citizen's TV Sporty Monday programme, Odongo affirmed that the girls are gearing up with intense training sessions, determined to shine on home soil.

 Odongo acknowledged having formidable opponents like Cote d'Ivoire, but remained optimistic of the outcome stating they are preparing hard against the team.

"The ladies are very ready to give it their best shot at the Africa Cup. Anytime we are given the chance to represent the country we will always put our best foot forward," an enthusiastic Odongo stated. 

Lionesses scrum flyer, Judith Auma, who will not feature in the tourney as she is nursing an injury, has in the meantime backed her coach saying her teammates are ready for the tournament.

"We can't allow them to beat us at home. The girls are very ready and we are going to be the champions for this tournament," Judith affirmed.

With the tournament returning to Kenyan soil for the second time since 2014, the Lionesses are determined to make a statement in front of their home crowd. The competition will feature 12 teams including hosts Kenya, defending champions South Africa, Uganda, Madagascar, Zambia, Tunisia, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, and Mauritius.

Both Coach Odongo and Judith also used the occasion to urge greater government investment for the sport, especially for women, particularly in infrastructure.

With passionate home fans behind them, the Lionesses are not only chasing the cup, but also aiming to inspire a new generation of female rugby talent in Kenya while also advocating for women in sports.