By GPC Sports Reporter
Sports Cabinet Secretary Salim Mvurya has congratulated Kenya’s Rising Lionesses after they made history by winning rugby sevens gold at the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games.
The team defeated Australia 17–12 in extra time to claim the title, becoming the first African nation to win rugby sevens gold at either the Olympic Games or the Youth Olympic Games.
Also Read
The Rising Lionesses had earlier beaten China 12–5 and hosts Senegal 19–0 in the group stage before overcoming Madagascar 15–5 in the semi-final.
In a congratulatory statement, Mvurya praised the players, coaches, technical bench and support staff for their performance throughout the tournament, particularly their composure in the closely contested final.
“Their hard work throughout the campaign and their composure in a closely contested final have made Kenya proud,” he said.
Mvurya said the Government would continue working with the Kenya Rugby Union and other partners to strengthen opportunities for women and girls in sport.
He said the focus would include developing a pathway from school and community rugby to club competition and national teams, supported by access to coaching and regular competition.
“Access to coaching and regular competition will help more girls develop their talent and progress to senior international rugby,” he said.
The CS also commended Rugby Africa, the Kenya Rugby Union, sponsors and other partners for supporting the championship.
He said the Government remained committed to expanding opportunities for women and girls in sport under President William Ruto’s leadership.
