Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah has emphasised the significance of strategic partnerships in advancing rugby development across the continent.

Speaking at the Finance in Common Summit held in South Africa, Herbert pointed to key agreements aimed at fostering capacity building, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability within African rugby.

The summit, which brought together major stakeholders including Rugby Africa, World Rugby, the French Rugby Federation (FFR), the South African Rugby Union (SARU), Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and Expertise France, underscored a shared commitment to developing the sport while promoting gender equality and eco-responsible actions.

Herbert Mensah, who attended the summit alongside South Africa’s Minister for Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, SARU President Mark Alexander, French Ambassador to South Africa Abdul Benazzi, and AFD CEO Remy Rioux, described the gathering as a milestone in Rugby Africa’s development agenda.

“The Finance in Common Summit saw the signing of agreements for African Rugby Development Projects, stemming from the relationship established between AFD and Rugby Africa in 2023,” he stated.

“This collaboration has now expanded to include SARU, FFR, and AFD, marking a significant step towards a stronger financial framework for rugby development.”

The agreements aim to strengthen local rugby unions through targeted training and tailored support, using the sport as a tool for social integration and gender equality while increasing awareness of sustainability issues.

The initiative will benefit rugby unions in Algeria, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

Herbert also took the opportunity to engage with Minister Gayton McKenzie, whom he described as a “brother” and an instrumental figure in advancing sports development in Africa. He expressed gratitude for McKenzie’s presence at the contract-signing event, calling it a major boost for Rugby Africa’s mission.

“In order for rugby in Africa to truly develop, we need such partnerships where stakeholders bring valuable contributions to Rugby Africa,” he remarked. “AFD has been our partner for some time, and their collaboration with FFR and SARU signifies an expansion of resources that will benefit the entire continent.”

Looking ahead, Herbert stressed the importance of identifying additional financial partners to bolster Rugby Africa’s bottom line and ensure the continued growth of the sport.

“Rugby Africa must now seek other partners within the financial sector to enhance our funding and drive sustainable development,” he said.

The Finance in Common Summit showcased the growing momentum behind rugby’s expansion in Africa, reinforcing the sport’s role in social transformation and positioning it as a powerful vehicle for positive change across the continent.