With just days to go until the Rugby Africa Cup kicks off, Uganda has confirmed its final squad for the much-anticipated continental tournament, which doubles as a 2025 Rugby World Cup qualifier.
Headlining the squad is dynamic fullback Philip Wokorach, who returns to national duty after an impressive stint in the India Rugby Premier League, where his flair and footwork lit up the competition. His experience and attacking prowess are expected to be a major boost to the Cranes’ backline.
Also included is versatile forward Alex Aturinda, fresh from captaining Uganda’s Sevens side at the recent Africa Sevens. His transition to the 15s format brings agility and decision-making at the base of the scrum, offering the Cranes an added tactical edge.
The squad also features fresh front-row talent. Walukuba Barbarians’ hooker Edward Emiemu, Jinja Hippos’ prop Fahad Maido, and KOBs powerhouse Blair Ayebazibwe have all earned call-ups after knocking on the national team door in previous campaigns. Their inclusion signals a generational shift in Uganda’s forward pack.
Uganda’s campaign begins with a fierce East African derby, as they face Kenya in a high-stakes quarterfinal on Tuesday, August 8. The clash is set for a 4:00 p.m. (EAT) kick-off at the Mandela National Stadium’s annex pitch and promises to be a thrilling curtain-raiser.
With a mix of seasoned internationals and promising new faces, the Rugby Cranes are gearing up to make a strong statement on home turf.
The Squad Breakdown
Hookers: Nathan Bwambale, Edward Emiemu
Props: Santos Ssenteza, Blair Ayenazibwe, Saul Kivumbi, Collin Kimbowa, Fahad Maido
Locks: Eliphaz Emong, Julius Opio, Sydney Gongodyo, Brian Wandera
Back Row: Byron Oketayot (Captain), Frank Kidega (Vice Captain), Pius Ogena, Desire Ayera, Alex Aturinda
Half-backs: Conrad Wanyama (vice-captain), Aaron Ofoyrwoth, William Nkore, Liam Walker
Midfield: Isaac Massa, Ian Munyani, Timothy Kisiga
Outside Backs: Philip Wokorach, Adrian Kasito, Joseph Aredo, Shakim Ssembusi, Ivan Otema
