From Vision to Action: Herbert Mensah Leads Rugby Africa’s Drive Toward a Self-Funded Future

Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa and a member of the World Rugby Executive Board, has outlined a compelling vision for the future of African rugby.

In his recent piece, he emphasizes the need for a mindset shift and a more business-focused approach to drive growth and development in the sport.

Mensah notes that sport is big business, and Africa needs to tap into its vast potential. With a competition budget of barely £700,000 for 1.4 billion people, he acknowledges that sustainability is a major concern. “We’re not here to beg,” he emphasizes.

“We must build just as Africa must build gold refineries and chocolate factories to realize true value. The new mantra is simple: teach people how to fish in this New World Order; don’t just give them the fish.”

To address the financial challenges, Rugby Africa is embracing hosting rights and partnerships. Mensah praises nations that have stepped forward, showing leadership and commitment. “Uganda, Ghana, Morocco, etc., you have shown leadership and commitment. Kenya will host in 2025, fully funding the event. By 2026, subsidies will largely be gone, and more nations are preparing to take responsibility for their tournaments.”

The success of the Women’s Rugby World Cup has shown that women’s rugby is not just the future but the present. With 82,000 fans attending the final and another 15,000 tickets unsold, Mensah believes that this momentum can be built upon to drive growth and development in African rugby. “Women’s rugby isn’t just the future; it is the present future,” he says.

Mensah also emphasizes the importance of government support, particularly in logistics, transportation, and infrastructure. “Only when governments and unions step up can African rugby reach its true potential,” he notes, acknowledging that progress is being made.

Looking ahead, Mensah envisions a future where African rugby is self-sufficient. “We must reach a point where all unions fund their play, governments support logistics, and Rugby Africa is no longer dependent on handouts,” he says, adding that perhaps one day, Africa and Asia will teach the bigger nations how to stand on their own feet.

Through his leadership, Mensah is driving change and pushing for a more sustainable future for African rugby. As he aptly puts it, “I’m not here to be popular; I’m here to do what is right.” With leaders like Mensah at the helm, African rugby is poised for a brighter future.