A 25-year-old athlete from Uganda has become the first woman from her country to join a top-tier women’s rugby team in the UK. Peace Lekuru recently relocated to Yorkshire to play for the York Valkyrie, marking a milestone for African representation in the sport.
Lekuru, who plays as a center or backrower, described the move as a dream realized. “I feel like I’m raising Uganda’s flag high,” she said. “Being here is a huge achievement for me.”
Her journey to the UK began years ago when she was spotted by York Valkyrie’s director of rugby, Lindsay Anfield, during a tour in Uganda. Anfield, who has worked to develop rugby in Africa since 2006, recognized Lekuru’s potential early on.
“Peace stood out immediately—she has the talent to compete at the highest level,” Anfield said. “Now she’s proving it.”
Lekuru made an immediate impact, scoring three tries in her recent match against Barrow Ladies. But her success didn’t come without challenges. Her family initially hesitated about her moving so far from home. “My mother worried, but now she just wants to hear my voice and know I’m happy,” Lekuru shared.
Since arriving in York three weeks ago, she has found a welcoming community. “It feels like a second home,” she said. “The team has become another family.”
Anfield hopes Lekuru’s success will inspire more African women to pursue professional rugby. “She’s a trailblazer,” Anfield said. “Five years ago, young girls in Uganda might not have dreamed of this—now it’s possible.”
Lekuru’s story is more than just a sports milestone—it’s a testament to determination and the growing opportunities for women in rugby worldwide.
