Uganda’s She Cranes have been crowned African netball champions after producing a composed performance to overcome defending champions South Africa 56–53 in a tense final at the Kasarani Indoor Arena in Nairobi, Kenya. In a contest that remained fiercely competitive until the closing stages, Uganda held their nerve to secure the continental crown and bring a memorable campaign to a triumphant finish.
The She Cranes arrived at the decisive match unbeaten, having negotiated a demanding pool campaign that included victories over Nigeria, Zambia, hosts Kenya and Malawi. South Africa had been equally impressive, sweeping through Pool 1 before defeating Malawi 62–46 in the semi-final. The final therefore brought together two of the continent’s strongest sides, with Uganda ultimately producing the crucial moments that separated the teams by three goals and secured the championship.
Beyond the battle for the title, the Nairobi tournament also determined Africa’s representation at the Sydney 2027 Netball World Cup. Uganda and South Africa had already earned their places through the World Netball rankings as of December 1, 2025. Malawi then claimed bronze by defeating Namibia 50–45, while both Malawi and Namibia earned invitations to the global tournament after reaching the qualification semi-finals. Africa will consequently have four representatives in Sydney: Uganda, South Africa, Malawi and Namibia.
The competition, however, also highlighted the need for greater clarity in the organisation of future continental tournaments. Combining the Africa Netball Cup with the World Cup qualification pathway created uncertainty because already-qualified nations competed alongside teams seeking World Cup places. Africa Netball subsequently acknowledged the difficulties surrounding the format and indicated that future editions would separate teams already qualified for the global tournament from those competing for qualification.
As the Nairobi championship drew to a close, Africa Netball Acting President Rebekka Goagoses called for unity, collective responsibility and stronger foundations across the continent. She urged administrators and stakeholders to concentrate on developing players, strengthening federations and building sustainable structures rather than allowing divisions to dominate the sport. With Uganda celebrating another continental triumph and four African nations heading to Sydney, the tournament has closed one chapter while placing a clear challenge before the continent: to build a stronger, more united and sustainable future for African netball.
Photo: Netball Uganda Media
