Kenya Lionesses captain Sheilla Chajira has expressed optimism and confidence ahead of the Africa Women’s Sevens, set to take place on November 15–16 at the RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi.
Speaking during the team’s final preparations on Thursday, Chajira said the squad is fully motivated to reclaim continental glory on home soil, having last lifted the title in 2018.
“Kenyans will want us to win here at home. Playing for the national team is a huge honour — it’s like going to fight for your country,” she said. “We’ve been losing this tournament, but this time we’ve beaten South Africa three times this year, and we’re ready to make it the fourth.”
The Lionesses, who finished second at last year’s edition after falling 17–10 to South Africa, have enjoyed a strong 2025 campaign, winning two rounds of the World Rugby Challenger Series and finishing third in another.
Their recent victories against South Africa have boosted morale as they look to make history once again.
Chajira, who has represented Kenya at both the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics, believes home advantage and thorough preparation will be key.
“The Safari Sevens served as a perfect build-up for this tournament. We’ve trained hard, and we’re ready to face anyone,” she added.
The 18-team continental showdown will feature top African sides including South Africa, Uganda, Tunisia, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Côte d’Ivoire. Kenya has been drawn in Pool B alongside Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
Beyond competition, Chajira emphasized the team’s responsibility as role models.
“Representing Kenya means inspiring young girls who dream of playing rugby. We want to show them that with discipline and effort, they too can reach this level,” she noted.
The Lionesses’ preparations conclude with scheduled captain’s runs at the Impala Grounds on Friday, November 14, alongside other teams, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Uganda.
With determination, experience, and home support behind them, the Lionesses hope to bring back the continental crown — and with Chajira’s leadership, Kenya’s dream of dominating African women’s rugby once more feels within reach.
