World Rugby confirms 2026 Women in Rugby Careers programme cohort with strong impact in Kenya
PHOTO// WORLD RUGBY
By Mahlon Lichuma
World Rugby has announced the 250 participants selected for the 2026 Women in Rugby Careers Programme, chosen from over 1,300 applications received from 114 countries. Now in its second edition, the programme reinforces World Rugby’s commitment to developing women leaders and professionals across all areas of the sport.
This year’s cohort represents 91 countries and includes women working in coaching, officiating, governance, medical support, performance analysis, team management, and commercial operations. The programme will run seven virtual webinars throughout the year, offering expert-led learning, mentorship, and global networking opportunities. The first session begins in April, led by Sally Horrox, World Rugby’s Chief of Women’s Rugby.
For Kenya, the programme continues to be especially transformative. Following the participation of match official Mercy Migongo in 2025, Kenyan women in rugby have gained greater visibility, confidence, and professional pathways. Migongo credits the programme for accelerating her personal growth, strengthening her officiating career, and inspiring her to advance in coaching and educator certification.
Her success has had a ripple effect in the local rugby ecosystem, motivating more Kenyan women to pursue leadership roles within unions, clubs, coaching structures, and officiating panels. The programme’s emphasis on skills development and mentorship provides Kenyan participants with global exposure, elevating the country’s standards and widening opportunities for women in rugby.
By connecting Kenyan women to international expertise and professional networks, the Women in Rugby Careers Programme continues to play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of female rugby leaders in Kenya.
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