Africa Netball Championship: Three Dropped, Lunkuse Returns as She Cranes Are Flagged Off to Malawi

By: Kayiira Jackson 

Uganda’s senior national netball team, the She Cranes, was officially flagged off on Friday at Cooper Chimney in Lugogo ahead of their trip to Lilongwe for the upcoming continental assignments. The ceremony was presided over by National Council of Sports Assistant General Secretary (Technical), Milton Chebet, who urged the team to uphold discipline and represent the country with pride.

The final travelling squad came with notable changes, including the absence of star shooter Mary Nuba, who will miss the tournament due to personal reasons. Her place has been taken by NIC’s prolific goal shooter Sera Zam, who steps into the team for her first major assignment.

The technical team also confirmed the dropping of three players—Akello Malisera, Fildauce Namulema, and Shakirah Nassaka—as the squad was trimmed to the final twelve.

There was good news, however, as team captain Racheal Nanyonga returned to the side. Nanyonga missed the She Cranes’ recent trip to Scotland due to visa complications but is now back to lead the team. Norah Lunkuse has also been recalled to the squad, replacing Malisera.

The team will depart in two batches, with the first group of ten players flying out at 2:00 am on Saturday, while the remaining players and officials are scheduled to travel later the same night.

Uganda has been placed in Group A alongside familiar regional rivals Kenya, as well as Zimbabwe and Namibia, setting up a competitive group stage challenge. The championship is set for 8-14 December 2025.

Final travelling squad:
Racheal Nanyonga (C), Sera Zam, Norah Lunkuse, Margaret Baagala, Shadia Nassanga, Christine Nakitto, Specioza Namukose, Lillian Ajio, Lillian Achola, Faridah Kadondi, Shaffie Nalwanja and Gloria Ayaa.

The She Cranes will be aiming to build on their strong continental reputation as they head into yet another key international test.