Top 10 Netball Teams in Africa (2026)
Africa has become one of the most exciting regions in international netball. Several African nations have established themselves as competitive international teams, challenging traditional netball powerhouses.
South Africa, Uganda and Malawi lead the continent, while Zimbabwe, Zambia and other developing nations continue to strengthen their national programmes.
This guide explores the top 10 netball teams in Africa in 2026, based on the rankings and information featured in this article.
Top 10 African Netball Teams in 2026
| Rank | Country | World Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Africa | 5th |
| 2 | Uganda | 6th |
| 3 | Malawi | 7th |
| 4 | Zimbabwe | 13th |
| 5 | Zambia | 16th |
| 6 | Namibia | 20th |
| 7 | Botswana | 22nd |
| 8 | Kenya | 30th |
| 9 | Eswatini | 40th |
| 10 | Tanzania | 44th |
Rankings shown are those reported in the August 2026 article and should be checked against the latest World Netball rankings before reuse.
1. South Africa – SPAR Proteas
South Africa is Africa's highest-ranked netball nation. The SPAR Proteas have consistently competed against the world's strongest teams.
South Africa hosted the 2023 Netball World Cup in Cape Town, marking the first time the competition was staged on African soil.
The team has also achieved impressive results at major international competitions, including a runners-up finish at the 1995 World Championship.
Read more about the Netball World Cup 2023 teams.
2. Uganda – The She Cranes
Uganda has developed into one of the strongest netball nations in Africa.
The She Cranes are known for their athleticism, physical strength and attacking ability. Their performances at international tournaments have helped establish Uganda as a serious challenger to South Africa.
3. Malawi – The Queens
Malawi's national team, known as the Queens, has earned international recognition through its competitive performances.
The team famously defeated New Zealand in 2018, demonstrating that African nations can challenge the traditional leaders of international netball.
4. Zimbabwe – The Gems
Zimbabwe has a proud netball history and has participated in major international competitions, including the 2019 and 2023 Netball World Cups.
The Gems continue to develop their national programme and remain an important force in African netball.
5. Zambia
Zambia is another established netball nation in southern Africa. The country continues to develop its players and strengthen its international competitiveness.
6. Namibia
Namibia has continued working towards improving its international ranking and developing competitive opportunities for its national players.
7. Botswana
Botswana has participated in the Netball World Cup and continues to invest in the growth of the sport.
8. Kenya
Kenya is one of East Africa's developing netball nations. The country continues to build its competitive programme and increase participation.
9. Eswatini
Eswatini is an emerging netball nation in southern Africa, with opportunities to strengthen its domestic competitions and international performances.
10. Tanzania
Tanzania completes the African top 10. The country continues to develop its national netball structure and participation.
African Teams at the Netball World Cup
African teams have played an increasingly important role in international netball.
South Africa hosted the 2023 Netball World Cup, while Uganda, Malawi and Zimbabwe have also represented the continent at major tournaments.
Read our coverage of the 2023 Netball World Cup championship.
How Is Netball Growing Across Africa?
Netball development across Africa is supported by:
- National netball federations.
- School and university competitions.
- International coaching programmes.
- Youth development initiatives.
- Regional tournaments.
- Greater media coverage and sponsorship.
These initiatives help young athletes develop their skills and create pathways towards international competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best netball team in Africa in 2026?
South Africa's SPAR Proteas are the highest-ranked African team in the rankings presented in this article.
Which African countries play international netball?
South Africa, Uganda, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Kenya, Eswatini and Tanzania are among the continent's active netball nations.
Has Africa hosted the Netball World Cup?
Yes. South Africa hosted the 2023 Netball World Cup in Cape Town, the first edition held on the African continent.
Which African team is known as the She Cranes?
Uganda's national netball team is known as the She Cranes.
Which African team is called the Queens?
Malawi's national netball team is known as the Queens.
Final Thoughts
African netball continues to grow, with South Africa, Uganda and Malawi leading the way. The development of young players, stronger domestic competitions and international exposure will be important for the future of the sport.
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