She Cranes announce squad for 2024 Africa Netball Cup

She Cranes coach Nelson Bogere has named a 14-player squad to represent Uganda at the 2024 Africa Netball Cup, scheduled for December 9–14 in Swakopmund, Namibia.

Among the selected players are debutants Firdaus Namulema and Gloria Aya, whose inclusion brings fresh energy to the team.

For Namulema, the opportunity to don the national dress is a dream come true. “Being on the national team means a lot to me. It is everyone’s dream. I will make sure to do my best for my team and my nation,” she said. Namulema expressed gratitude to her coaches for recognizing her potential, pledging to make a significant contribution to Uganda's campaign.

Coach Bogere is optimistic about the team's chances, aiming to surpass the second-place finish Uganda achieved at the 2021 Africa Netball Cup, where they narrowly lost to South Africa in the final. “We have had good training sessions, and my players are fit. I believe this team has the potential to perform better than before,” Bogere stated.

The She Cranes will face strong competition from nine other teams, including Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, and hosts Namibia. The tournament promises intense action as Uganda seeks to reclaim the glory it last tasted in 2017 and 2018, when they secured back-to-back Africa Cup titles.

This year’s campaign holds added significance for Uganda, as the team missed the 2022 and 2023 editions due to governance challenges. Returning to the continental stage, the She Cranes are eager to reassert their dominance.

With experienced players complementing the newcomers, the She Cranes are determined to make their mark in Namibia.

Traveling squad

Shooters: Irene Eyaru, Christine Namulumba, Shadia Nasanga, Mary Nuba and Racheal Nanyonga

Midcourt: Margaret Baagala, Joyce Nakibuule, Firdaus Namulema and Mercy Batamuliza

Defenders: Sandra Nambirige, Christine Nakitto, Faridah Kadondi, Haniisha Muhameed and Gloria Aya