Africa-Press – Uganda. The Victoria Pearls will open their 11th Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament campaign with a soft jab and a strong punch as they face minnows Cameroon Wednesday and the fired-up Zimbabwe Emerging side on Thursday in a challenging 48-hour window at the iconic Gahanga International Stadium.
Uganda, ranked 17th globally, are favourites on Matchday One against Cameroon, who sit a distant 73rd and will be banking on a miracle of marginal proportions to upset skipper Janet Mbabazi’s charges.
Real litmus test
Anything short of a convincing win against Ekani Ngono’s West Africans at Gahanga B Oval would be a shock of seismic proportions. But the real litmus test will be against Zimbabwe Emerging on Thursday, a side that boasts six full internationals including captain Nomvelo Sibanda, who recently featured in ODIs against the USA.
Although Zimbabwe’s outfit is labelled “emerging”, it is anything but second string. Coached by the ever-demanding Steve Mangongo, the Lady Chevrons have brought a hungry side eyeing revenge after losing last year’s final by just two runs to Uganda. “We’re ready to defend our crown. Rwanda is like our second home, and we have fond memories,” said Mbabazi, fresh from headlining the vibrant Captains’ Run shoot at Kigali’s Car-Free Zone.
Part of the process
Coach Deus Muhumuza echoed the skipper’s resolve. “We’ve worked on mindset, fitness and tactical sharpness. This tournament is part of our bigger journey to the World Cup qualifiers,” he said.
Uganda’s line-up features both experienced and fresh faces, including promising debutants Sarah Tino, Kevin Awino and Teddy Oyella, alongside seasoned performers like vice-captain Ritah Musamali, Stephanie Nampiina and all-rounder Immaculate Nakisuuyi.
As title holders and crowd darlings, the Pearls are expected to sparkle early — but Zimbabwe’s test will truly measure their mettle.
The next 48 hours in Kigali promise a mixed dish of emotions, as the Pearls look to lay down a marker not just for the title defence, but also for the bigger ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers ahead in Namibia.
KWIBUKA T20 2025
UGANDA’S FIXTURES
Wednesday: Uganda vs. Cameroon (10:45 AM)
Thursday: Uganda vs. Zimbabwe Emerging (10:30 AM)
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