Museveni hails rugby as a unifying force, affirms Uganda’s readiness to host continental tournament

President Yoweri Museveni today warmly welcomed Herbert Mensah, the President of Rugby Africa, and his esteemed delegation, praising the sport of rugby as a powerful catalyst for unity, physical fitness, and profound social transformation. The high-level meeting at State Lodge, Nakasero, marked a significant moment for Ugandan sports, confirming the nation’s inclusion in the prestigious Webb Ellis Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour and its selection as the host for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, a crucial Rugby World Cup qualifying tournament.

“Let me start by welcoming Mr. Mensah, the President of Rugby Africa, together with his delegation to Uganda. Thank you for including Uganda in the World Cup Trophy tour,” President Museveni stated, expressing his delight. “I am very happy to receive you and I’m glad you are promoting the game of rugby, which carries with it important values.”

The President elaborated on rugby’s unique ability to instill national discipline and cooperation. He underscored its dual benefits: physical vigor and, more importantly, its emphasis on teamwork. “Rugby captures different elements of purpose. It is physically vigorous, excellent for fitness but more importantly, it builds teamwork. In rugby, you cannot succeed through individual excellence alone. It’s collective effort that wins the game. That’s the spirit our country needs, unity and shared purpose,” he affirmed.

When commended for Uganda’s burgeoning infrastructure, President Museveni responded with characteristic humility and perspective. “I am surprised to hear you praising our infrastructure. We are just getting started and we will make it better. What we first built was peace. Uganda had collapsed; it was a failed state. Everything else we are now building stands on that foundation of peace,” he explained, highlighting the foundational role of stability in national development.

Reflecting on the global nature of sport, President Museveni noted its crucial role in cultural integration and international relations. He cited the example of Britain post-Brexit, observing, “Since they left [the European Union], they have become more active in global engagements. Sports, culture, education, science—all these are means of keeping nations connected and purposeful. Rugby is now one of those unifying forces.”

A keen sportsman in his youth, President Museveni fondly recalled his own sporting days. “Me, I was a footballer in my youthful days. So I understand the joy and discipline that sport brings,” he shared. He also expressed pride in the remarkable achievements of Uganda’s female athletes, acknowledging, “I’m glad our daughters are doing very well. They’ve carried the flag with dignity.”

On his part, Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa, conveyed profound gratitude to President Museveni for his visionary leadership and Uganda’s remarkable sports transformation. “I want to congratulate you, Your Excellency, not just for your investment in rugby, but for the principles on which you lead. Uganda has become a continental force. At the AU Games in Ghana, your teams were champions. Uganda’s name was mentioned alongside Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela, and Julius Nyerere,” Mensah praised, drawing parallels with iconic African leaders.

Mensah also recalled a formative personal encounter with the President. “Many years ago, you hosted us on your ranch and gave us a small lecture. That time left a lasting impression. You gave us sound advice and visionary insights, and I am grateful to stand here again,” he added.

Mensah further cited Uganda’s robust infrastructure and prevailing peace as key factors instilling Rugby Africa’s confidence in hosting the upcoming World Cup qualifier in the East African nation. “We are here because Uganda has what it takes: the infrastructure, peace, and commitment. We would like to stage more competitions here,” he stated.

Dr. Jonathan Webb, the Vice-Chair of World Rugby, echoed the sentiments, lauding Uganda’s exceptional hospitality and unwavering commitment to sports development. “Thank you, Your Excellency, for taking time to receive us. From the moment we arrived, we have experienced nothing but a warm welcome,” Dr. Webb remarked. “This is my first time in Uganda and its rugby that brought me here. The structure, the passion, the cohesion we see here speaks volumes.” He further emphasized World Rugby’s eagerness to deepen its partnership with Uganda, affirming their commitment “to supporting Uganda’s rugby journey not just as a sport, but as a tool for empowering lives and communities.”

Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports, highlighted the transformative potential of hosting the tournament, predicting it will inspire a new generation and significantly amplify Uganda’s global reputation. “Your Excellency, I thank you for receiving this delegation and for the strong support you continue to offer to sports. Last week, we honoured our athletes, including our women’s rugby team, who continue to make us proud internationally,” he said.

Ogwang underscored that Uganda’s sports ecosystem—comprising infrastructure, policy, and leadership—is now optimally positioned for global attention. “Hosting this World Cup qualifier is more than a sporting event. It will attract global attention, inspire our youth, and give Uganda a platform to tell its story,” he concluded.

The momentous occasion firmly places Uganda at the heart of African rugby, signaling a new era of growth and international recognition for the sport in the country.