President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has this morning warmly welcomed Mr. Herbert Mensah, the President of Rugby Africa, and his delegation to Uganda. He praised the sport of rugby as a powerful tool for unity, fitness, and social transformation.
Speaking during a high-level meeting at State Lodge, Nakasero, the President expressed deep appreciation for Uganda being included in the Webb Ellis Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour. Uganda has also been selected to host the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, which doubles as a 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 said. “I am very happy to receive you and I’m glad you are promoting the game of rugby, which carries with it important values.”
He explained that rugby, unlike some other sports, is particularly effective in instilling national discipline and cooperation. “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 said.
President Museveni also responded with humility and perspective when praised for Uganda’s infrastructure. “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 said.
Reflecting on the global nature of sport and its place in cultural integration, President Museveni commented on the role of countries like Britain post-European Union exit. “When Britain joined the European Union around 1964, I followed that debate. Since they left, 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,” he added.
He also proudly noted the rise of Uganda’s female athletes, saying: “I’m glad our daughters are doing very well. They’ve carried the flag with dignity.”
On his part, Mr. Mensah expressed gratitude to President Museveni for his visionary leadership and Uganda’s 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,” Mr. Mensah said.
He also recalled an earlier fruitful 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.
Mr. Mensah further cited Uganda’s infrastructure and peace as key reasons Rugby Africa is confident in hosting the World Cup qualifier in the East African country. “We are here because Uganda has what it takes: the infrastructure, peace, and commitment. We would like to stage more competitions here,” he said.
Dr. Jonathan Webb, the Vice-Chair of World Rugby, also lauded Uganda’s hospitality and 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,” said Dr. Webb.
He also emphasized that World Rugby was eager to partner with Uganda further. “We are extremely committed to supporting Uganda’s rugby journey not just as a sport, but as a tool for empowering lives and communities,” he added.
Hon. Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports, said hosting the tournament will inspire a new generation and 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.
He concluded by thanking the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, for her steadfast leadership. “Where Maama leads with prayer, our athletes follow with medals.”
Also in attendance was the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Education and Sports, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda.