Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) President Losson Mtongwiza for being named runner-up in the 2024 Administrator of the Year category at the Annual National Sports Awards (ANSA), praising his exceptional leadership and rapid impact on Zimbabwean rugby.

In a letter issued by the continental rugby boss, Herbert Mensah lauded Mtongwiza’s visionary approach, noting the swift progress made under his stewardship since his election in May 2024.

Within just six months, Mtongwiza oversaw Zimbabwe’s national men’s team, the Sables, as they clinched the 2024 Rugby Africa Cup in Uganda—marking the team’s second continental title since 2000.

“While I admire Losson’s visionary leadership for Zimbabwean rugby, I also applaud the impressive short-term gains under his administration,” Herbert Mensah said. “He has quickly built a formidable national side and united key stakeholders around a common goal.”

Mtongwiza’s leadership also saw the Sables named Team of the Year at the ANSA Awards, outperforming other top-performing national teams across various sporting codes in Zimbabwe.

Herbert highlighted Mtongwiza’s success in forging strong partnerships with sponsors and stakeholders, which he described as crucial to the resurgence of Zimbabwean rugby.

“This achievement by Losson and his team comes at a special time for Zimbabwe, as the country celebrates one of its greatest sports icons, Kirsty Coventry, being elected the first African and first female President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC),” he added.

Herbert Mensah also recognised the leadership transition within Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Sport, welcoming the appointment of General Anselem Sanyatwe as the new Sports Minister.

He expressed optimism about working closely with both Sanyatwe and Mtongwiza to harness Zimbabwe’s potential as a major rugby-playing nation on the continent.

“I want to express my appreciation to Losson for safeguarding rugby’s prosperity in his home nation and across Africa. His collaboration with Rugby Africa and dedication to his people reflect both humility and strong leadership,” Herbert Mensah concluded.

The letter underscores the strengthening ties between Rugby Africa and its member unions, with Zimbabwe emerging as a key partner in the development and promotion of the sport across the continent.