During a three-day visit to Uganda, Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah met with Uganda’s Minister of Sports, Peter Ogwang. Organised by the Uganda Rugby Union, the meeting emphasises the strong commitment from both the Ugandan government and the Uganda Rugby Union, the official governing body of rugby in Uganda, as the country continues preparations for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup.

The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, a qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, promises to be a landmark event for African rugby. Set to take place in July at the Mandela National Stadium, the tournament will feature 8 teams from across the African continent. This marks the second consecutive year that Uganda will host the Rugby Africa Cup, following a successful tournament in 2024.

Accompanied by World Rugby Regional Partnerships Manager for Africa, Coralie Van Den Berg, the high-level meeting included key Ugandan rugby stakeholders, including the Chair of the National Sports Council (NSC), Ambrose Tashobya, NSC Secretary General, Dr. Bernard Patrick Ogwel, President of the Uganda Olympic Committee, Dr. Donald Rukare, President of Uganda Rugby Union, Mr. Godwin Kanagwe and CEO of the Uganda Rugby Union, Isaac Lutwama.

The collaborative efforts between government and sports bodies are vital for the successful development of rugby. Honourable Peter Ogwang, Minister of Sports, reaffirmed the government’s enthusiastic support for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, noting that it aligns with Uganda’s broader goal of boosting sports tourism and hosting world-class events.

Uganda’s investment in sports infrastructure and its commitment to fostering a supportive environment for rugby is positioning the country as a key player in rugby across the globe. By upgrading facilities, Uganda is creating a more engaging atmosphere for fans but also providing players with the resources needed to excel.

In addition to government, Rugby Africa met with partners, including Nile Breweries Limited, represented by Managing Director, Adu Rando and Brand Manager, Eric Malinga. Discussions focused on strengthening partnerships and leveraging the Rugby Africa Cup to boost rugby’s visibility across the continent.

The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup will complement Uganda’s upcoming role in hosting the 2027 African Nations Championship (CHAN) and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

“It’s not about being the best in the world; it’s about having the right structures in place and the right people with the right vision. In Uganda, under the leadership of President Godwin, the Uganda Rugby Union has demonstrated exactly that. They’ve won off the field, and that’s why they’re starting to win on the field as well,” said Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah.

“Uganda Rugby is on an upward trajectory, and this visit has been instrumental in shaping our next steps. From strengthening our grassroots programs to ensuring Uganda is ready to deliver an excellent Rugby Africa Cup in 2025, which is also crucially a World Cup qualifier. Rugby Africa’s commitment to our development is clear. We are excited about what the future holds and are ready to take Ugandan rugby to new heights,” said President of Uganda Rugby Union, Godwin Kayangwe.
 
“This visit has been exceptionally positive, and we are greatly encouraged by the strong collaboration demonstrated by the Government of Uganda. Uganda’s significant investment in sports infrastructure is commendable, and rugby stands out as one of the few team sports in the country with a genuine opportunity to excel on the global stage, both in 15s and 7s. The support and commitment from all parties involved are truly inspiring, and we are confident that Uganda will successfully deliver a memorable tournament,” said World Rugby Regional Partnerships Manager for Africa, Coralie Van Den Berg.

“This visit by Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah and the World Rugby Regional Manager for Africa, Coralie Van Den Berg, is a significant moment for Ugandan rugby. First and foremost, it reaffirms Uganda’s place in the continental rugby landscape, but even more crucially, it strengthens our preparations for hosting the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup. The discussions over the two days have been fruitful. We deeply appreciate Rugby Africa & World Rugby’s continued support, and we are confident that Uganda will deliver an historic 2025 Rugby Africa Cup,” said Chief Executive Officer of Uganda Rugby Union, Isaac Lutwama.

Credit: Rugbyafrique.com