The Kenya Lionesses pose with Sports CS Salim Mvurya after performing well at the at the Los Angees HSBC 2025 Challenger Series./HANDOUT
The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) on May 19, 2025, officially launched a dedicated Women’s Rugby Committee, a significant move aimed at strengthening the national women’s team, the Kenya Lionesses, and accelerating the growth of women’s rugby in the country.
The announcement comes as the Lionesses prepare for the 2025 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, with over 50 players currently in an 11-day training camp ahead of the tournament.
The new committee brings together professionals from diverse fields, including corporate governance, coaching, communication, and sports development.
Its goal is to boost the sport’s visibility, promote growth at all levels, and support player welfare.
KRU Chairman Sasha Mutai reaffirmed the Union’s commitment to promoting inclusivity and sustainable development in women’s rugby.
“Leadership in rugby is about fostering inclusivity and ensuring that every player, coach, and administrator has the right platform to succeed. This committee reflects our commitment to the growth and sustainability of women’s rugby in Kenya,” Mutai said.
The committee includes Co-Chair Nisha Van Hoek (Marketing and Strategic Networking), KRU CEO Thomas Odundo, Wambui Mumbi (Media and National Squads Liaison), Paula Lanco (Rugby Governance and Networking), Wanjikú Wairia (Corporate Governance Strategist), and Faith Basiye (Corporate Networking Executive at KCB Bank).
Also on board are Wairimu Nyathira (Media, Communication and PR), Mary Ochieng (Women’s Rugby Coach and Technical Development), and Shirley Anindo (Player Welfare and Mentorship).
The committee will focus on key areas such as establishing strong governance and safeguarding policies, enhancing grassroots talent development, building strategic partnerships, promoting media visibility, and advancing equity and inclusion in the sport.
Nisha Van Hoek expressed pride in joining the team, emphasizing the importance of deliberate communication and leadership.
“The commitment requires not just passion, but purposeful communication and inclusive leadership. I’m proud to be part of a team that is creating inclusive pathways and elevating women’s participation at every level of the game,” she said.
KRU CEO Thomas Odundo welcomed the formation of the committee, noting that it allows women’s rugby to grow in ways that reflect its own unique challenges and strengths, rather than mirroring the men’s game.
Meanwhile, preparations for the upcoming Rugby Africa Women’s Cup continue, with the final 28-player Lionesses squad set to be named on May 28.
The tournament will run from June 5 to 16 in Madagascar.
Kenya will open their campaign against hosts Madagascar on June 1, face defending champions South Africa on June 11, and wrap up the group stage with a clash against Uganda on June 15
