Category: Sports

A New Dawn for African Sports: Unlocking Transformational Investment in Community Sports Infrastructure

LAGOS, Nigeria, March 4, 2025/ — The Sports Africa Investment Summit 2025 has marked a pivotal moment in Africa’s journey toward sports industrialisation and economic transformation.

Over two electrifying days in Lagos, the summit, hosted by Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte (www.SportNigeria.ng) in partnership with the Office of the Presidency and the National Sports Commission, brought together a powerful coalition of stakeholders—government representatives, UNESCO, AFREXIM Bank, Development Finance Institutions (DFIs), investors, and sports industry leaders—all united by a shared vision: to unlock the immense potential of sports as a driver of economic growth, job creation, and community development across Africa.

At the heart of this historic gathering was the signing of a groundbreaking technical agreement between the Abia State Government and Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte, paving the way for Africa’s first-ever Sports Special Economic Zone (SSEZ).

This visionary initiative will transform Abia State into a global hub for sports goods manufacturing, leveraging Aba’s legendary craftsmanship, entrepreneurial spirit, and industrial excellence.

Aligned with Nigeria’s Industrial Revolution Plan (NIRP) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the SSEZ is poised to become a beacon of innovation, trade, and industrialisation, creating thousands of jobs and empowering local businesses.

According to Hon. Nwaobilor Ananaba, Commissioner for Sports, Abia State, “The Special Sports Economic Zone is a game-changer for Abia State and Nigeria at large. Under the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR we are committed to driving a collective agenda that will transform Abia into the premier hub for sports goods manufacturing and infrastructure development.

This project is a bold step toward job creation, youth empowerment, and economic diversification, and we will work tirelessly to ensure its full realisation with our partners, Sports Nigeria.”

The summit’s robust discussions underscored the pressing need for innovative financing models, capacity-building initiatives, and diaspora engagement to sustain long-term development.

According to Mr. Chinedum Chijioke, Chair of the Abia State Investment Office, “The signing of this agreement marks the beginning of a transformative journey to attract global investments and build an ecosystem where sports, commerce, and industry thrive together. We are dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships that will actualise this vision and create lasting economic impact.”

The summit also saw the formal launch of Spaces 4 Sports, Sport Nigeria’s flagship initiative designed to address Africa’s sports infrastructure deficit at the grassroots level.

This cluster-based model will integrate community sports hubs across the continent, providing accessible facilities that encourage mass participation in sports, particularly within the education sector.

By embedding sports into daily life, Spaces 4 Sports aims to achieve a 50% increase in mass sports participation, enhance youth engagement, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Africa Union Agenda 2063, using sports as a catalyst for education, health, and gender inclusivity.

The message from the summit was clear: Africa’s sports economy is ready to take off, but it will require bold investments, visionary leadership, and strategic partnerships to realise its full potential.

This point was emphasised by Ms. Nkechi Obi, CEO of Sport Nigeria Ltd, “Sports is more than entertainment—it’s an industry, a business, and a force for economic transformation. Abia’s Sports Special Economic Zone is the first of its kind, but it won’t be the last. We are setting a precedent that others will follow.”

The private sector has a critical role to play in bridging the infrastructure gap and unlocking the industry’s potential. With sports serving as a multi-billion-dollar industry globally, Africa is uniquely positioned to harness its youthful population, raw talent, and market demand. Strategic investment in sports infrastructure will not only drive economic growth but also create employment, boost tourism, and elevate Africa’s global sporting competitiveness.

Mr. Yahaya Maikori, Vice Chairman of Sport Nigeria, notes that “We don’t need more talk—we need action. This SSEZ is our action plan. The world is watching, and investors are ready. Now is the time.”

The foundation has been laid. The partnerships are forming. Now is the time for investors, DFIs, and Africa-focused development organisations to step forward and seize this unprecedented opportunity. The future of African sports is not on the sidelines—it’s in the factories, the training centers, the research labs, and the boardrooms.

The call to action is clear: Invest in Africa’s sports future. Build the infrastructure. Empower the youth. Transform communities. Together, we can change the game.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Sport Nigeria Ltd.

For investment inquiries or partnership opportunities, please contact:

Sport Nigeria Ltd/Gte
Email: sais@sportnigeria.ng ; info@sportnigeria.ng
Website: www.SportNigeria.ng

Media Contact:
Sport Nigeria Communications
Email: sais@sportnigeria.ng
Phone: 0706 203 8705

SOURCE
Sport Nigeria Ltd

March 4, 2025
Africa: APO Group Chairman Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard to Share Insights on African Sports and Development at EurAfrican Forum 2024

CASCAIS, Portugal, July 10, 2024/ — APO Group (www.APO-opa.com), the leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, is glad to announce that its Founder and Chairman, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard (www.Pompigne-Mognard.com), will be a guest speaker at the seventh edition of the EurAfrican Forum 2024 (www.EurAfricanForum.org).

The event, organised by the Portuguese Diaspora Council, will take place at NOVA School of Business and Economics in Cascais, Portugal on 15 – 16 July 2024.

Launched in 2018 and chaired by the former President of the European Commission and current Chair of the Board of Gavi, The Vaccine Alliance, Professor José Manuel Durão Barroso, the EurAfrican Forum is an action-oriented platform that seeks to strengthen collaboration between Europe and Africa.

Previous editions of the EurAfrican Forum were attended by the Presidents of Ghana, Mozambique, and Angola, along with a diverse array of influential leaders, policymakers, and industry experts.

Commenting on his participation, Pompigne-Mognard said, “I am honoured to join this distinguished forum and share insights on how the sports industry can be a catalyst for the growth of the continent.

Sports go beyond entertainment. It is widely recognised by development actors as a catalyst and an enabler of human development and social good, offering opportunities for jobs and revenue generation through sponsorships, broadcasting rights, merchandise sales, venue management, tourism, infrastructure development, event management, hospitality services, sports technology, and fan engagement.

Sports can also influence urban development by revitalising areas through the construction of stadiums and sports complexes, contributing to local economies.”

Pompigne-Mognard serves on the Advisory Board of the World Football Summit.

In June 2023, he was appointed as Special Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa, the governing body of rugby in Africa, to provide expert advice and guidance on specific issues and areas of responsibility related to rugby and matters of interest on the African continent.

Pompigne-Mognard’s wholly-owned enterprise, APO Group, has been FIFA’s pan-African public relations agency for the past three years and serves as the pan-African public relations agency for the NBA and the Basketball Africa League. It also functions as the strategic partner of the Olympic Movement in Africa (ANOCA).

From 2017 to 2022, APO Group held the position of Main Official Sponsor of Rugby Africa. In 2023, it advanced to become Rugby Africa’s official public relations partner and sport marketing agency. APO also sponsored Africa’s first-ever World Tour cycling team, NTT Pro Cycling, from 2020 to 2022, and the Lux Afrique Polo Day from 2019 to 2021.

It maintains strategic partnerships with the International Press Sport Association (AIPS) and is the official partner of the OM Africa development programme of the renowned French football club, Olympique de Marseille.

Recently, The Beast Foundation, a prominent sports and education programme established by former Springbok rugby legend and Rugby World Cup winner, Tendai Mtawarira (The Beast), selected APO Group as its exclusive public relations partner.

Pompigne-Mognard was listed among the 100 Most Influential Africans in 2023.

Other representatives from APO Group attending the EurAfrican Forum 2024 include João Marques, Director of Strategy, and Eleanor Legge-Bourke, Senior Growth Director.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of APO Group.

Media contact:
Marie@apo-opa.com

July 10, 2024
Annual Investment Meeting(AIM)2024 Congress Grand Opening Ceremony

The 13th edition of the AIM Congress kicked off today with a grand Opening ceremony featuring speeches by distinguished global dignitaries in the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, under the theme “Adapting to A Shifting Investment Landscape: Harnessing New Potentials for Global Economic Development”.

May 8, 2024
New Year Address from Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, January 11, 2024/ — Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body of rugby across Africa, issues end of year message reflecting on 2023:

Amidst our joyful farewell to 2023, I am thrilled to share my reflections as the President of Rugby Africa, the continental governing body of rugby in Africa. Together, our collective accomplishments have not only defined this year but have also laid a foundation for the promising future of Rugby Africa.

Milestones and Achievements

As we reflect on the remarkable journey of the past nine months, it is with immense pride that I share the highlights of our accomplishments. From the success of the Rugby Africa Women’s tournament in Madagascar to the significant Rugby Africa Men’s Olympic qualification tournament in Zimbabwe, the thrilling Rugby Sevens tournament in Mauritius, and the vibrant scene in Tunisia’s Monastir, our efforts have truly shone on the rugby stage. Notably, a significant portion of our achievements this year has been dedicated to francophone countries.

We celebrate the re-admittance of Nasser Bougja as Vice President, the return of the Moroccan Rugby Federation to Rugby Africa, an established pathway solution for Cameroon, Ghana and management of other upcoming elective Annual General Assemblies and the momentous milestone of signing the long-awaited agreement with the French Development Agency (AFD) to foster the development of women’s rugby in Africa.

We have addressed administrative challenges by rectifying loose agreements within Rugby Africa that were either uncontracted or unpaid. Internally, administrative efficiency has been enhanced with the establishment of committees, each equipped with clear terms of reference and KPIs for committee members.

Looking ahead, we are committed to annual reassessments, ensuring that our committees maintain the highest standards of performance. It’s important to note that accountability remains a cornerstone, and those unable to meet expectations will be subject to be reassigned from their roles.

Commitment to Progress

As President of Rugby Africa, I continue to call for a mindset change recognizing that sport is big business. This plea heralds a new era, challenging the status quo with a comprehensive constitutional review—a ground breaking initiative unprecedented in our history.

This review, initiated by Rugby Africa through the Executive Committee, involves input from various committees, our judicial council, external legal experts and a final presentation to member unions for ratification. This transformative process signifies our commitment to transparency and progress, setting a new standard for Rugby Africa.

Strategic Planning

We have successfully developed and received approval for our strategic plan, a blueprint aimed at providing financial support to all 39 member unions of Rugby Africa. Considering the limited funding from World Rugby, which primarily supports 21 out of the 39 Rugby Africa member unions, this strategic plan is a significant milestone for Rugby Africa.

The plan, meticulously reviewed and presented across our committees, places a strong emphasis on securing financial backing to ensure that all Rugby Africa member unions have the necessary support to play competitively and thrive in the world of rugby.

Financial Initiatives

In a strategic effort to maximize our resources, Rugby Africa has introduced a series of financial initiatives. For the first time ever, hosts are now entrusted with covering all hosting grants- a move anticipated to result in cost savings.

Guided by our Competition Manager, Johnbosco, calculations are underway to access the potential impact of these changes. Furthermore, Rugby Africa is in discussions for multiple sponsorship opportunities, with an official announcement expected mid 2024.

These initiatives underscore Rugby Africa’s commitment to foster more opportunities for rugby across the continent, reshape competitions and elevating the overall rugby experience. Among our own initiatives, we remain hopeful to receive greater levels of financial support from World Rugby, to further support our development and advance the growth of rugby in Africa.

Unity Among Unions

We approach the future with a sense of optimism and gratitude. My sincere appreciation goes to all the unions that have embraced the challenges. In Southern Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Botswana, have successfully organized a spirited competition, reflecting the true spirit of rugby.

Burkina Faso actively engaged in a Seven’s competition, demonstrating their dedication to the sport. Guinea participated in an international match with Sierra Leone, fostering unity in our rugby community.

Over the past two months, Ghana has actively engaged in matches with Benin and Togo. Beyond borders, collaborative efforts between Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania are gaining momentum as they work towards organizing their own competitions.

I was particularly enthused by the huge efforts of Uganda’s test matches in Tunisia and Algeria’s proposed test match against Senegal. Furthermore, the 2023 Indian Ocean Island Games hosted by Madagascar, with countries such as Mauritius participating, provided an additional opportunity for increased game time. I am deeply grateful for the collective enthusiasm displayed by the unions across the continent. Together, as a federation, we are charting a path of enthusiasm and progress in the world of rugby.

Acknowledgement and Gratitude

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to APO Group, South Africa Rugby Union, French Rugby Federation (FFR), French Development Agency (AFD), and World Flair for their invaluable support. Their commitment and collaboration have provided us with a powerful platform to champion our firm belief that the development of rugby in Africa is not just a sport but an investment in the future of the continent.

Together, with the support our partners, we are building a foundation for the growth of rugby, fostering community engagement, and contributing to the overall development and well-being of Africa. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to this shared vision. This year, Rugby Africa has asserted itself on the global stage, making it abundantly clear that Africa is key player in the world of rugby.

During the Bloomberg Gateway Conference in Morocco, our message reached an audience of over 3.5 million people, emphasizing the vast business opportunities inherent in investing in rugby across Africa, showcasing our continent at the forefront in the global marketplace.

At the Africa Investment Forum in Marrakesh, I had the privilege of engaging in discussions with the President of the African Development Bank, highlighting rugby’s potential to drive economic growth through investment opportunities emerging from the continent itself. These events are instrumental in shaping Rugby Africa’s global positioning, paving the way to a future where rugby across Africa can ascend to new heights.

We continue to ask ALL to accept a mindset shift to give the opportunity of sports (Rugby) a chance. Sport is NOT a charity it is BIG business!

Reflections and Greetings

A substantial amount of work has been accomplished by members of the executive committee, along with dedicated efforts of staff members and myself. As President of Rugby Africa, I believe it becomes evident that 2023 has been dedicated to laying the foundational groundwork.

We anticipate that the fruits of our labour will begin to manifest from the second half of 2024 onwards. In extending my sincere gratitude, I wish season’s greetings to everyone, embracing the diversity of religious traditions that enrich our continent. This is a time for unity, for coming together, breaking bread, and celebrating the strides we made collectively.

God be with all of us!

Herbert Mensah
President of Rugby Africa

Download official letter here: https://apo-opa.co/3SdGAsV

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

January 11, 2024
PHOTO NEWS RELEASE: Africa Investment Forum: Rugby Africa President Calls for Investment in the Excellence of Africa

MARRAKECH, Morocco, November 10, 2023/APO Group/ –Herbert Mensah, the newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, participated in a one-to-one fireside chat at the 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) on Thursday, November 10 in Marrakech, Morocco. Championed by the African Development Bank and seven other founding partners (Africa50, Africa Finance Corporation, Afreximbank, Development Bank of Southern Africa, European Investment Bank, Islamic Development Bank and Trade and Development Bank), the Africa Investment Forum is Africa’s investment marketplace to accelerate transactions to close Africa’s investment gaps.

In the discussion, Rugby Africa President encouraged the investment of sport across Africa, emphasizing the importance of investment opportunities emerging from the continent itself.

Read the full press release: https://apo-opa.co/3FV6pXA

Read more information about the Africa Investment Forum: www .AfricaInvestmentForum.com

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

November 11, 2023
Africa Investment Forum welcomes Rugby Africa President to discuss the business of sport

MARRAKECH, Morocco, November 6, 2023/ — The newly elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body for rugby in Africa, Mr Herbert Mensah, will discuss the business of sport in a one-to-one fireside chat at the 2023 Africa Investment Forum (AIF) (www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com) on Thursday, November 9 in Marrakech, Morocco.

Championed by the African Development Bank and seven other founding partners (Africa50, Africa Finance Corporation, Afreximbank, Development Bank of Southern Africa, European Investment Bank, Islamic Development Bank and Trade and Development Bank), the Africa Investment Forum is Africa’s investment marketplace to accelerate transactions to close Africa’s investment gaps.

Founded in 2018, the Africa Investment Forum has mobilized nearly $143 billion in investment interest. The event brings together heads of state, business leaders, decision makers and investors to advance critical investment transactions to closure. Previous attendees include H.E Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, H.E Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, and H.E Nana Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana.

The sports industry in Africa is experiencing rapid growth, with the potential to generate jobs, improve public health, foster social inclusion and drive economic growth. According to PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), the industry was valued at $7 billion in 2018 with an expected growth of $12 billion in 2027. Despite the potential, investment across Africa remains limited, with only 1% of startup financing directed towards the sport sector.

Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah, continues to emphasize the business potential of rugby across Africa. Since his election, President Mensah has called for a change of mindset from African governments and international organizations to increase investment in rugby across Africa. In June, President Mensah delivered a keynote speech on treating rugby as a lucrative business venture at the Bloomberg New Economy Gateway Africa 2023 event in Marrakech, Morocco.

Watch the video on the Bloomberg Website: https://apo-opa.info/466rOcr

The annual three-day Africa Investment Forum Market Days event will commence on Wednesday November 8 to Friday November 10 under the theme “Unlocking Africa’s Value Chain” in Marrakech, Morocco.

Read more information about the Africa Investment Forum: https://www.AfricaInvestmentForum.com/en

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.

Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

November 7, 2023
Gbewaa Damba Trophy goes back to Yendi

By: Mohammed A. Abu

The highly patronized maiden friendly football match between age-long historical playmates, the people of Savulgu and Kumbungu in Western Dagbon ended on Saturday in a 1:1 draw at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Ghana’s Northern regional capital of Tamale.

Held under the auspices of His Royal Majesty, Ndan Yaa Na Abukari II, King of the Dagbon Kingdom, Northern region of Ghana, the event doubled as a fundraiser cum major side attraction within the context of a recent Royal Decree permitting the rebranding of the centuries long Damba Festival for peace and development.

In the absence of a winner the Damba trophy had to be returned by the Paramount Chief of the Pishigu Traditional Area, His Royal Highness, Dr. Alhassan Andani to His Royal Majesty, through the elders of His Royal Highness, the Kug Na for onwards delivery to His Royal Majesty, the King, as per Dagbon’s royal protocols best practice.
It is anticipated that the second edition of the match, come the next Damba festival, would that time round, get a winner to take the cup home.

Post-Match Savulgu-Kumbungu ‘Rivalry’

Amidst the draw score results, some people of Savulgu could be heard saying their mates from Kumbungu were “dam lucky”. Their team they contended, had wanted to teach their Kumbungu counterparts a bitter lesson they wouldn’t have forgotten in their lives but fortunately for them, by a stroke of luck on their part, the match was brought to an end, shortly after their equalizer and so they must thank their stars.

The Savulgu protagonists further contended that, the draw notwithstanding, their team had totally beaten their Kumbungu counterparts in terms of professionalism, ball possession and number of corners.

Their Kumbungu counterparts were heard to have come out with a sharp rebuttal and ridiculed the Savulgu claim of ball possession and number of corners an empty bluff. “If the expertise you are claiming and touting is true,why were you all that while, unable to score us multiple goals to win but could only manage with one miserable last minute goal as an equalizer for a draw?”,they quizzed.

The Savulgu and Kumbungu historical playmates are known for their never quenching thirst for ‘rivalry’ whenever they chance to meet be it online or in-person. They are indeed, the most interesting duo to behold in Dagbon.

Historical Antecedents

The historical playmate relations between the people of Savulgu and Kumbungu characterized by teasing and cracking of very funny jokes with each other,started about some one hundred and twenty seven years(127) years ago but still active up till today thanks to the unwaning commitment on the part of both parties.

Legend has it that a most unfortunate incident that occurred was to result in a bitter conflict between Kumbungu and one of its other neigbours, Zangbalun.The conflict is said to have developed into a spill over to Savulgu sadly resulting into an eventual showdown between the people of Kumbungu and Savulgu.

This most unpalatable development,is said to have prompted a most decisive action and intervention by then ruling King of Dagbon,Yaa Na Andani II(1858-1896) in order to restore peace in the Kingdom.

Courtesy the King’s affirmative action,the narrative has it that,peace and harmony was restored once again between the people of Kumbungu and Savulgu.

Both sides were therefore exhorted to ensure continuous peace building and to at all times, engender peaceful co-existence and never to give any chance again to the least strife let alone, the worst of it,armed conflict.

The Savulgu-Kumbungu historical playmates relationship some contend,could be cited as a case study in conflict prevention, resolution, management, and peacebuilding driven by commitment and passionate desire for lasting peace and its sustainability on the part of the parties to the conflict.

Giving a friendly football match competition touch to the relations some observers have also contended, is not only a meaningful value addition to it, but also, it adds a yet another interesting dimension to Ghana’s football sports landscape.

October 7, 2023
Message from Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah to South Africa’s Springbroks amidst the 2023 Rugby World Cup

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, September 10, 2023/ — As South Africa prepares for their opening game today, Herbert Mensah, the newly elected President of Rugby Africa, (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the continental governing body of rugby across Africa, issues letter addressed to Mark Alexander, President of the South Africa Rugby Union:
A warrior fights with courage, not with anger. African proverb
From the four (plus) corners of the greatest continent in the World, AFRICA We wish You, The Springboks well. We stand by You as we love, respect and honour You and with all the collective strengths of our Gods and our Ancestors We pray for You!
You are “Our” World Champions (1995, 2007 and 2019) …. all 1.3 billion of us. You give us hope and send the message that the rainbow stretches from Ras ben Sakka (most northerly point of Africa) to the Cape Aglhas (South Africa) and from Cape Verde Peninsula (most westerly point of Africa) to Xaafuun (Hafun) Point, near Cape Gwardafuy, Somalia (most Easterly point of Africa).
Rugby Africa watched with keen interest as head coach Jacques Nienaber named the South Africa Rugby World Cup squad and we knew that this squad would be ready for the battle. Winners all. What will the opposition squad do with seven mighty forwards on the bench

FORWARDS
Props
Vincent Koch
Ox Nché
Frans Malherbe
Trevor Nyakane
Steven Kitshoff
Hookers
Bongi Mbonambi
Malcolm Marx
Locks
Marvin Orie
RG Snyman
Jean Kleyn
Eben Etzebeth
Back-rows
Marco van Staden
Jasper Wiese
Kwagga Smith
Pieter-Steph du Toit
Duane Vermeulen
Siya Kolisi (captain)
Utility forwards
Franco Mostert
Deon Fourie
BACKS
Scrum-halves
Faf de Klerk
Jaden Hendrikse
Grant Williams
Cobus Reinach
Fly-halves
Manie Libbok
Damian Willemse
Centres
Andre Esterhuizen
Jesse Kriel
Damian de Allende
Back-three
Canan Moodie
Cheslin Kolbe
Makazole Mapimpi
Kurt-Lee Arendse
Willie le Roux
Mark from the tribes of the Zulu, Masaai, Berbers, Fula People, Nubians, Somalis, Oromo People, Shona People, Habesha Peoples and my own Ashanti representing some of the most famous warriors in our history, We are ready to share and carry your pain and propel you to victory.
We are proud of You
Herbert
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

September 10, 2023

Statement from Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah on the Passing of Kenya Lionesses Rugby Player Bernadette Olesia

Bernadette’s leadership as the Captain of the Northern Suburbs Ladies Team was a testament to her unwavering dedication

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, August 16, 2023/ — With profound sadness, I learn of the passing of Kenya Lionesses rugby player, Bernadette Olesia. As the President of Rugby Africa (http://www.RugbyAfrique.com), I am deeply saddened by the loss of Bernadette, who made a significant impact on our sport.Bernadette’s leadership as the Captain of the Northern Suburbs Ladies Team was a testament to her unwavering dedication.
Her recent contributions to the 2023 Rugby Africa Women’s Cup, coupled with her commitment to the Shamas Rugby Foundation, highlighted her exceptional skills and relentless spirit. Bernadette’s absence leaves a void that will be deeply felt across the rugby community.On behalf of Rugby Africa and myself, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Kenya Rugby Union, Bernadette’s family, friends and teammates. We offer our unwavering support and sympathy.
Let us remember Bernadette not only for her accomplishments but for her kindness, determination and passion.With deepest sympathy,
Herbert Mensah
President of Rugby Africa
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.comAbout Rugby Africa:
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SOURCE: Rugby Africa

Distributed by APO Group

August 16, 2023

Ghanaian Herbert Mensah Represents World Rugby Chairman at World Rugby U20 Trophy in Kenya

The newly elected President of Rugby Africa will embark on a five-day visit to Kenya where he will officially represent World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont

NAIROBI, Kenya, July 27, 2023/ — Herbert Mensah, the recently elected President of Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com), the governing body of rugby in Africa, is scheduled for a five day visit to Kenya. During his visit, Herbert Mensah will serve as the official representative of World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont at the World Rugby U20 Trophy tournament, where he will have the privilege of presenting the highly coveted trophy.

The World Rugby U20 Trophy is an international rugby union competition organized by World Rugby. This tournament features men’s junior national teams, with players under the age of 20 showcasing their skills and passion for the sport.

All 16 matches of the World Rugby U20 Trophy are actively taking place at the Nyayo National Stadium in Nairobi, Kenya, following its commencement on 15 July.

It is the second time Kenya is hosting the U20 Trophy, having done so in 2009 when the tournament was known as the Junior World Rugby Trophy. Besides the silverware, the eight competing teams will be playing for a spot in the World Rugby U20 Championship next year in South Africa. The winners will be promoted to the U20 Championship replacing Japan, as the team that finished bottom in that competition (24 June – 14 July, South Africa) will drop down to the U20 Trophy in 2024.

The participating teams have been divided into two challenging pools. Pool A consists of Scotland, Uruguay, USA, and Zimbabwe, while hosts Kenya join Hong Kong China, Samoa, and Spain in Pool B. This lineup promises an intense and captivating display of rugby talent and teamwork.

“The World Rugby U20 Trophy not only showcases Kenya’s capability as a world-class sporting destination but also represents the collective spirit and passion for rugby that resonates across Africa. Together, we stand united in celebrating Africa’s presence on the global rugby stage,” said Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa.

Herbert Mensah’s presence during the World Rugby U20 Trophy reflects the significance of this event and his representation of World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont symbolizes the strong collaboration between Rugby Africa and the global rugby community.

“Africa hosting two World Rugby U20 tournaments consecutively will be exciting to witness and serves as the perfect build-up to Rugby World Cup 2023 which is just under three months away. Both South Africa and Kenya have proven their ability to host global age-grade competitions in the past and I have no doubt that these editions will be successful with great interest from local crowds”, said World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont.

As Kenya continues to welcome the world for the World Rugby U20 Trophy. Follow the journey, witness remarkable athleticism, and celebrate the passion for rugby in one of Africa’s most vibrant nations.

More information about the World Rugby U20 Trophy: https://apo-opa.info/3q4lbXQ Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa.
Media contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communication Advisor to the President of Rugby Africa
rugby@apo-opa.com

July 27, 2023