Ogwang certain of Uganda’s readiness for Rugby Africa Cup
Uganda’s readiness to host the prestigious event was a key focus during initial preparatory meetings held March 4 2025, at Kampala Serena Hotel.
Officials from a joint meeting between tne minister of sporrts Peter Ogweng (fifth left), the continental and world rugby officials together with UOC and NCS officials at Serena Hotel Mar 4 2025. (Credit: Silvano Kibuuka)
By Silvano Kibuuka
Journalists @New Vision
KAMPALA - Preparations for the 2025 Africa Rugby Tournament, set to take place in Uganda this July, are in full swing.
The tournament, featuring eight of Africa’s top rugby nations, will also serve as a World Cup qualifier, with the winner securing a spot alongside South Africa at the 2026 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Uganda’s readiness to host the prestigious event was a key focus during initial preparatory meetings held March 4 2025, at Kampala Serena Hotel.
The discussions brought together government officials, Africa Rugby president Herbert Mensah, and Coralie Van Denberg, Africa’s regional development representative from World Rugby.
The meeting was chaired by sports state minister Peter Ogwang.
Also in attendance were National Council of Sports (NCS) chairman Ambrose Tashobya, NCS general secretary Patrick Ogwel, Uganda Olympic Committee president Donald Rukare, and Uganda Rugby Union (URU) president Godwin Kayangwe, along with other URU officials and committee members.
Minister Ogwang assured World Rugby and Africa Rugby officials that Uganda is fully prepared to host the event, highlighting the country’s growing investment in sports infrastructure.
“We are looking at hosting a successful CHAN tournament and the Africa Rugby competition in July. I want to thank the officials from World Rugby and Africa Rugby for their confidence in us. Many doubted our ability to deliver on infrastructure, but we are now starting to see results. With these improvements, we aim to attract major events like the World Rugby Challenger Series and other global competitions,” Ogwang stated.
Africa Rugby President Herbert Mensah praised Uganda for its significant progress in the sport and commended Ogwang for his dedication to sports development.
“The patronage was great last year, and we expect an even higher level of participation this time. We discussed logistics and expectations to ensure everything is in order. Both Uganda and Africa Rugby are fulfilling their responsibilities, and we anticipate a fantastic tournament in July,” Mensah said.
Uganda will host eight nations for the competition, with the ultimate winner joining South Africa as Africa’s representatives at the 2026 Rugby World Cup in Australia.