In late May 2025, the Victoria Pearls, Uganda’s senior women’s cricket team, prepared for an exciting journey to Kigali, Rwanda. This trip was not just another tournament; it marked their participation in the prestigious 11th edition of the Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, set to commence on June 3 at the renowned Gahanga International Cricket Stadium.
As the defending champions, the Pearls were determined to defend their title and gain momentum for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup qualifiers in Windhoek, Namibia. Captain Janet Mbabazi expressed her team’s aspirations: “We look to not only defend the title but also use this tournament as preparation for the qualifiers ahead and build confidence.” Her sentiments resonated with the entire team, who viewed Rwanda as a second home filled with fond memories and a platform to showcase their skills.
The team’s focus was clear—strategy, mental toughness, and adaptation to the challenges of back-to-back matches. Coach Deus Muhumuza echoed this commitment, emphasizing the intensity of their preparation over the previous month and a half. “We’re working on a more positive batting mindset, disciplined bowling, and agile fielding. The team is physically and mentally in good shape,” he affirmed. The squad blended seasoned players with rising stars, including Teddy Oyella, an emerging wicket-taker; Kevin Amuge, a dependable opening bowler; and Sarah Tino, a promising all-rounder making her international debut.The decision by the team management to allow student-athletes Irene Mutoni, Malisa Ariokot, Lorna Anyait, and Immaculate Nandera to focus on their academic commitments led to these new inclusions, showcasing the team’s balance of experience and potential.
The Victoria Pearls had a storied history in the Kwibuka Tournament, having won it three times and finishing as runners-up five times. As they faced formidable opponents in Nigeria, Zimbabwe Emerging, and the host nation, Rwanda, they were prepared to embrace the role of the hunted. “We aim to play fearless cricket and grow as a unit,” Coach Muhumuza remarked, reiterating that this tournament was a crucial step in their journey.
The annual Kwibuka Tournament, held in remembrance of the victims of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi, was not merely a sporting event; it served as a unifying platform promoting peace, healing, and reconciliation through cricket. Launched in 2014 as a bilateral series between Uganda and Rwanda, it had burgeoned into one of Africa’s most respected women’s cricket competitions, featuring nine nations this year: Rwanda, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Brazil, Cameroon, Malawi, Tanzania, and Zimbabwe Emerging.
The tournament format featured a single round-robin, with all teams facing each other once, followed by semifinals and a grand final to determine the champion. The Victoria Pearls were set to kick off their campaign against Cameroon on June 4, followed by matches against Zimbabwe Emerging, Sierra Leone, Brazil, Malawi, Tanzania, Nigeria, and Rwanda.
The semifinals were scheduled for June 13, with the final on June 14.
As the Victoria Pearls embarked on this significant campaign, they carried the ambition to win while honoring the legacy of the Kwibuka cause. The tournament’s spirit of remembrance and unity infused their journey, driving them to not only compete but also to inspire and uplift through the game they loved
