Kenya Lionesses Interim Head coach Simon Odongo has unveiled a 26-player squad set to begin preparations for the 2026 HSBC SVNS 2, slated for February 14th, 2026 in Nairobi.
The announcement signals the start of an important phase for the Lionesses as they ready themselves for a return to the global stage.
Odongo confirmed that the technical bench has kept faith with the core of the team that secured qualification to SVNS 2, retaining fourteen of the fifteen players involved in that campaign.
Foreign-based utility back Grace Okulu once again features in the squad, while speedster Janet Okello makes her comeback following her spell in Japan.
Joining the experienced group is a vibrant unit of eleven emerging players who have been standout performers in the local league. Their rise was further amplified by their strong outing at the Safari 7s, making a compelling case for international exposure.
With the team averaging 24 years of age, the Lionesses head into the season with a blend of youthful firepower and seasoned leadership.
In a move designed to strengthen the nation’s development structures, six top-performing high school players have been selected for a two-week alignment camp. These teenagers excelled at the national school games and will continue to feature in holiday training camps, barring exam periods. The initiative is part of KRU’s broader long-term strategy to build a deeper and more sustainable national team pathway.
The squad has already kicked off its December training phase, focusing on conditioning and skill refinement before breaking for the festive season.
Kenya Lionesses squad
1.Naomi Amuguni – Mwamba
2.Stella Wafula – Impala
3.Charity Nillah* – National Youth Service
4.Gloria Matasio* – Shamberere
5.Moreen Muritu – Kenya Harlequins
6.Christabel Lindo – Impala
7.Angel Salamba* – Kenya Harlequins
8.Sheila Chajira – Impala
9.Phoebe Akinyi – Northern Suburbs
10.Maureen Chebet* – Mwamba
11.Judith Auma – Impala
12.Edith Nariaka – Mwamba
13.Maxine Abuga* – Kenya Harlequins
14.Tracy Msungu* – Nakuru RFC
15.Sinaida Nyachio – Mwamba
16.Ann Namunyak* – Ruck It
17.Faith Achieng* – Northern Suburbs
18.Beatrice Osimbo* – Shamberere
19.Janet Okello – Unattached
20.Marvel Oswago* – Rongo University
21.Faith Livoi – Mwamba
22.Grace Okulu (Racing 92, France)
23.Freshia Awino – Nakuru RFC
24.Nelly Chikombe* – Impala
25.Diana Awino – Impala
26.Yvette Okech – Northern Suburbs
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