President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has warmly received Mr Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa, along with his delegation at State Lodge, Nakasero. The visit comes as Uganda prepares to host the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup—a key qualifying tournament for the Rugby World Cup.
The President expressed appreciation for Uganda’s inclusion in the prestigious Webb Ellis Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour and underscored the transformative power of sport, particularly rugby. “Let me begin by welcoming Mr. Mensah and his team to Uganda. Thank you for including us in the World Cup Trophy Tour,” said President Museveni. “I’m glad you’re promoting rugby—a game that fosters discipline, unity, and teamwork.”
He noted that, unlike some other sports, rugby instils collective purpose and resilience: “Rugby is physically demanding and excellent for fitness, but more importantly, it thrives on teamwork. Success in rugby is never about individual brilliance alone—it’s the collective effort that wins. That’s the spirit our nation needs: unity and shared purpose.”
When commended for Uganda’s sports infrastructure, the President responded with characteristic humility: “I’m surprised to hear praise for our infrastructure. We are only beginning. What we first built was peace—Uganda had collapsed, it was a failed state. Everything else we are now building stands on that foundation.”
Reflecting on sport’s role in global engagement, he observed, “Since Britain left the European Union, they’ve become more globally active. Sports, culture, education—these are tools of connection. Rugby is one of them.”
Sharing a personal note, President Museveni reminisced about his own youth: “I played football in my younger days, so I understand the discipline and joy that sports bring. I’m also proud of our daughters who are excelling and representing Uganda with pride.”
Mr. Mensah, in turn, thanked the President for his leadership and Uganda’s remarkable progress in sports. “I congratulate you, Your Excellency, not just for your investment in rugby but for the values you uphold. Uganda is now a continental force. At the AU Games in Ghana, your teams were champions. Uganda’s name was spoken in the same breath as Nkrumah, Mandela, and Nyerere.”
He recalled an earlier meeting with President Museveni: “You hosted us years ago on your ranch and gave us a powerful talk. That experience left a lasting impression.”
Citing Uganda’s peace, infrastructure, and commitment, Mr Mensah confirmed Rugby Africa’s confidence in Uganda as a host nation. “We’re here because Uganda has what it takes. We look forward to staging more events here.”
Also speaking at the event, Dr Jonathan Webb, Vice-Chair of World Rugby, praised Uganda’s hospitality and sports culture: “This is my first time in Uganda, and it’s rugby that brought me here. The structure, passion, and cohesion we see are remarkable. World Rugby is committed to walking with Uganda on this journey—not just in growing the sport, but using it to empower lives and communities.”
Minister of State for Sports, Hon. Peter Ogwang, emphasized the tournament’s significance for Uganda’s youth and international profile. “Thank you, Your Excellency, for receiving this delegation and for your strong support for sports. Last week, we honoured our athletes, including our women’s rugby team, who make us proud on the global stage.”
He added that Uganda’s sports ecosystem—its infrastructure, policies, and leadership—is ready for the global spotlight. “Hosting this World Cup qualifier goes beyond the sport. It will inspire our youth and offer Uganda a chance to tell its story.”
He concluded by thanking the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Museveni, for her steadfast support. “Where Maama leads with prayer, our athletes follow with medals.”
Also present was Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Education and Sports.
