South Africa once again proved why they are Africa’s rugby powerhouse, cruising to a commanding 22–0 victory over the Kenya Lionesses in the final of the Rugby Africa Women’s 7s tournament held on Sunday, November 16, at Nairobi’s RFUEA Grounds.
South Africa’s dominance secures 12th title and promotion
With this decisive win, the Springbok Women clinched their 12th Africa Women’s 7s crown and earned promotion to the SVNS Series Division Three for the next season.
From the outset, South Africa imposed their dominance despite a competitive start and an injury setback for Kenya, which saw Janet Okello replaced by Edith Nariaka just before halftime.
Shiniqua Lamprecht’s crucial try just before the break gave South Africa a vital lead heading into the second half.
The Springboks quickly built on their momentum after halftime. Simamquele Namba powered through to score the second try, stretching the lead to 12-0.
The home crowd grew quieter as Patience Mokene added a third try, pushing the advantage to 17-0. Nadine Roos capped off the victory with a final try, sealing the emphatic 22-0 win.
South Africa’s path to glory included a dominant 48-0 quarterfinal win over Ghana and a 29-0 semifinal shutout against Madagascar, showcasing their strength throughout the tournament.
Kenya’s run to the final featured a 33-12 quarterfinal triumph over Zimbabwe and a hard-fought 17-10 semifinal victory against Uganda.
Uganda secured the bronze medal after defeating Madagascar 38-12 in the third-place match.
Other Tournament Highlights
Madagascar edged Zambia 17-7
Tunisia narrowly beat Zambia 19-14 to claim fifth place
Zimbabwe claimed seventh place with a 19-12 win over Ghana
South Africa’s continued dominance in women’s rugby reflects their stronghold on the African scene, and they will aim to carry this momentum into upcoming international tournaments.
Tournament Results Summary:
Cup Quarterfinals:
South Africa 48-0 Ghana
Madagascar 17-7 Zambia
Uganda 31-12 Tunisia
Kenya 33-12 Zimbabwe
9th Place Semifinals:
Mauritius 22-7 Egypt
Côte d’Ivoire 5-10 Burkina Faso
Cup Semifinals:
South Africa 29-0 Madagascar
Kenya 17-10 Uganda
Placement Matches:
11th Place: Egypt 12-5 Côte d’Ivoire
9th Place: Mauritius 34-0 Burkina Faso
7th Place: Zimbabwe 19-12 Ghana
5th Place: Tunisia 19-14 Zambia
Bronze Medal: Uganda 38-12 Madagascar
Gold Medal: South Africa 22-0 Kenya Lionesses