President Museveni has welcomed Mr. Herbert Mensah, the President of Rugby Africa, and his delegation to Uganda, praising rugby as a powerful force for unity, fitness, and social transformation.
Speaking during a high-level meeting at State Lodge, Nakasero, President Museveni expressed deep gratitude for Uganda’s inclusion in the Webb Ellis Rugby World Cup Trophy Tour. He also celebrated Uganda’s selection as the host nation for the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, which will also serve 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.”
The president emphasized rugby’s unique role in fostering teamwork and national discipline.
“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.
Responding to compliments about Uganda’s infrastructure, President Museveni noted that the country is still developing, with peace as its foundation.
“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 influence of sports, President Museveni also commented on Britain’s role after leaving the European Union.
“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 further shared personal memories from his youthful sporting days.
“Me, I was a footballer in my youthful days. So I understand the joy and discipline that sport brings,” he said.
The President also highlighted the growing success of Uganda’s female athletes.
“I’m glad our daughters are doing very well. They’ve carried the flag with dignity,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr. Mensah commended President Museveni for his visionary leadership and the country’s transformation through sports.
“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 fondly recalled a previous meeting with President Museveni.
“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 cited Uganda’s infrastructure, peace, and commitment as reasons Rugby Africa has confidence in Uganda as a host for major competitions.
“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 praised Uganda’s hospitality and passion for rugby.
“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.
“This is my first time in Uganda, and it’s rugby that brought me here. The structure, the passion, the cohesion we see here speaks volumes,” he added.
He affirmed World Rugby’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Uganda.
“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 said.
Hon. Peter Ogwang, the Minister of State for Sports, thanked the President for his unwavering support for sports and noted that hosting the Rugby Africa Cup would raise Uganda’s international profile.
“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.
Hon. Ogwang emphasized Uganda’s readiness to host global sports events, citing strong infrastructure, supportive policies, and capable leadership.
“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 added.
He concluded by acknowledging First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Maama Janet Museveni, for her leadership in advancing sports.
“Where Maama leads with prayer, our athletes follow with medals.”
Also in attendance was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education and Sports, Dr. Kedrace Turyagyenda.
