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The She Cranes departed for Namibia to compete in the Netball Africa Cup, with notable players like Rachel Nanyonga returning and new talent joining the squad.

The She Cranes, Uganda’s national netball team, departed on Thursday 5^th December 2024 to participate in the Netball Africa Cup happening from 9th – 14th December 2024 in Swakopmund, Namibia.

Mary Nuba, who is currently based in the UK and set to move to Australia, will join the team in Windhoek. Notably, the squad includes the return of veteran player Rachel Nanyonga, who has been recalled to the national team. A long-serving member of NIC Netball Club, Nanyonga is eager to seize this opportunity.

“I have immense belief in my abilities and know I can still excel in the sport. I am deeply grateful to NIC for their unwavering support, which has kept me motivated. At NIC, we never stopped training, allowing me to remain fit and active. Additionally, I have maintained my competitive edge by playing basketball with the KIU Rangers,” she stated.

Nanyonga will be joined by two debutants: defender Gloria Aya and center player Filedaus Namulema.

Uganda is set to compete against strong teams including South Africa, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Zambia, Kenya, Eswatini, and hosts Namibia. This year’s tournament will also feature a men’s competition, although Uganda will not field a team.

Captain Irene Eyaru has expressed confidence in the squad, emphasizing their readiness to face the competition.

“I firmly believe Uganda is the strongest team in Africa. While many teams are preparing to challenge us, we remain composed because these are opponents we have consistently faced and overcome. We do not view them as superior,” remarked Eyaru.

The She Cranes are poised to make a strong showing in the championship, with high expectations from fans and supporters back home.