Herbert Mensah, the President of Rugby Africa, has issued a powerful commendation for Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, attributing the rapid growth and visibility of African rugby directly to his visionary leadership and tangible support.
Mensah’s remarks highlight Uganda’s critical role in hosting the Rugby World Cup qualification tournaments, which not only showcased elite athletic performance but also presented the nation’s cultural and natural splendor to an international audience.
Speaking on the impact of President Museveni’s commitment, Mensah noted that talk in sports often comes cheap, but Uganda has proven to be an exception.
The President’s direct backing of Rugby Africa’s vision, in collaboration with Godwin Kayangwe, President of the Uganda Rugby Union, facilitated two successful cycles of World Cup qualifiers on Ugandan soil.
This strategic partnership, Mensah stated, allowed the continent’s best rugby talent to compete while simultaneously promoting Uganda as a vibrant and welcoming destination.
Mr. Mensah specifically recalled the symbolic presentation of a Kente cloth from Ghana, expressing how deeply the gesture was appreciated and how it underscored the collaborative spirit driving African rugby forward.
He concluded with a strong appeal for more African nations and their leaders to follow Uganda’s example.
“We need more Ugandas and more President Musevenis if sports are going to develop rapidly,” Mensah asserted, emphasizing that sustained and significant investment from political leaders is paramount for rugby and other sports to truly flourish across the continent.
His statement underscores a call to action for broader governmental engagement to unlock the full potential of sports as a tool for national development and international recognition.
Story by: Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
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