Africa Netball Championship: She Cranes Silence Critics With Commanding Victory over Zimbabwe in Malawi

By KayiiraJackson  

After a shaky start to the 2025 Africa Netball Championship, the She Cranes produced a commanding response, dismantling Zimbabwe’s Gems 59–38 to secure a place in the semifinals with a game to spare in Lilongwe, Malawi.

Uganda entered the second fixture under pressure from back home after narrowly edging 21st-ranked Kenya Divas 46–45 on Monday — a one-goal win that left many questioning their title credentials.

Head coach Rashid Mubiru reacted swiftly, ringing changes in the starting seven. Kadondi Faridah replaced Lillian Ajio in the defending D, while Norah Lunkuse earned her first start ahead of Lillian Achola.

The adjustments brought immediate impact. Although the first quarter ended level at 12–12 after a spirited challenge from Zimbabwe, the She Cranes tightened their grip in the second quarter, stretching to a 26–20 halftime lead.

Mubiru introduced Achola for Lunkuse in the third quarter, and the momentum surged further. Uganda exploded with 19 goals while limiting Zimbabwe to just seven — a decisive stretch that pushed the score to 45–27 and effectively sealed the contest.

Ayaa Gloria, who struggled in the opener, delivered a standout performance with four steals — the most on the day. Margaret Baagala, Shadia Nassanga and Shaffie Nalwanja also stepped up, especially during the crucial third-quarter surge.

The She Cranes wrapped up the fourth quarter with a steady 14–11 finish, completing a dominant 59–38 victory that restored confidence and reaffirmed their pedigree.

Uganda will enjoy a rest day on Wednesday before returning for their final group game against Namibia on Thursday.

Meanwhile, Uganda’s men’s team, The Rock, also got off to a positive start, edging Botswana 40–39 in a tightly contested early-morning thriller.