Rugby Africa

Kenya Lionesses make changes for South Africa RAWC decider

By Luvisia Amanga

Posted on May 30, 2026

Kenya Lionesses Judith Okumu prepares to past against Samoa. PHOTO/Rugby Afrique/Facebook

Kenya Lionesses head coach Simon Odongo has made several notable changes to his match-day squad ahead of Sunday’s Rugby Africa Women’s Cup title decider against defending champions South Africa at the RFUEA Grounds.

The Lionesses head into the encounter on the back of an impressive 57-0 victory over Madagascar, knowing that another strong performance against the Springbok Women could see them challenge for continental honours on home soil.

Among the most significant changes is the promotion of Charity Nillah from the bench to the starting XV. Nillah comes into the second row, replacing Phoebe Otieno, who drops out of the matchday squad altogether.

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There is also a tactical reshuffle in the backline, with Sinaida Mokaya moving into the fly-half position after starting at fullback against Madagascar. Moreen Muritu, who wore the No.10 jersey in the previous outing, shifts to outside centre.

The front row remains unchanged, with Jane Chanya, Naomi Muhanjii and co-captain Natasha Emali retaining their starting spots. Naomi Jelagat partners Nillah in the second row, while Nelly Chikombe, Marvel Oswago and Sheila Chajira continue as the loose-forward trio.

At scrum-half, co-captain Judith Auma maintains her place alongside Mokaya in the halfback combination, while Stella Wafula and Faith Livoi are retained in the backline.

The bench also sees fresh additions, with Naomi Amuguni and Angel Salamba earning places in the matchday 23. They replace Sheila Wesa and Atieno Awuor, who featured among the substitutes against Madagascar.