Kenya to Host Rugby Africa Women's Cup in Nairobi: Four Nations Compete in May

The Kenya Rugby Union has officially confirmed that Nairobi will host the 2026 Rugby Africa Women's Cup Performance Division at the RFUEA Grounds from May 21 to 31. The tournament will feature four of Africa's top women's rugby nations competing in a round-robin format over three match days.

The Draw

Kenya will face South Africa, Madagascar, and Uganda in a round-robin format. South Africa are the clear favourites, having dominated African women's rugby for the past decade, but Kenya's Lionesses have shown steady improvement and will be desperate to make a statement on home soil. Uganda and Madagascar complete the field and will be competitive opponents.

Home Advantage

Hosting the tournament gives Kenya's women's rugby programme a massive boost. The RFUEA Grounds in Nairobi is one of the best rugby venues in East Africa, and the expected crowds will provide the Lionesses with a significant home advantage. KRU president Oduor Gangla said the event will also serve as a catalyst for women's rugby development in Kenya, with grassroots clinics and coaching workshops planned alongside the tournament.

What It Means for Kenyan Rugby

Kenya's women's rugby programme has been growing steadily but has lacked the international exposure needed to compete at the highest level. Hosting a continental tournament provides that platform. The Lionesses finished third at the last Rugby Africa Women's Cup and will target at least a podium finish again. A strong showing could boost Kenya's bid for inclusion in future World Cup qualifying pathways.

Tickets will go on sale in early May through the KRU website. For Kenyan rugby fans, this is a rare chance to watch top-level international women's rugby on home soil.