Uganda Rugby Union (URU) President Godwin Kayangwe issued a passionate rallying call to Ugandans as the country prepares to host the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup (RAC), which also serves as the continental qualifier for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Speaking at the official tournament launch held at Next Media Park on Monday, Kayangwe said hosting the Rugby Africa Cup is not just an achievement for the Union but a milestone of national pride and ambition.
“Hosting the Rugby Africa Cup, also a World Cup qualifier, is not just a URU milestone; it is a national moment,” Kayangwe said.
“Last year, we demonstrated that Uganda has the capability and infrastructure to host world-class rugby. This year, we raise the stakes.”
The 2025 edition will run from July 8 to July 20 at Mandela National Stadium – Namboole. It will feature eight of the continent’s top rugby nations: Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Kenya, Algeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco.
“As a nation, this is our World Cup journey, on home soil,” Kayangwe added.
“Every chant from the stands will be part of history. This is a rallying call to every Ugandan; stand with the Rugby Cranes as we aim to qualify for Australia 2027.”
The URU president also acknowledged the critical support from the Union’s partners, including the Ministry of Education and Sports, National Council of Sports, Nile Breweries, MTN MoMo, Hariss International, and NBS Sport, the official broadcaster.
The tournament will follow a knockout format starting with the quarterfinals. Uganda, champions in 2007, will open their campaign against arch-rivals Kenya.
The winner of the 2025 RAC will qualify directly for the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The runner-up will enter an inter-regional repechage for another chance at qualification.
