The Uganda Rugby Union (URU) has today officially launched the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup (RAC) at a high-profile press event held at the Next Media Park in Naguru, Kampala.
This occasion marks the beginning of Uganda’s journey as host of Africa’s premier rugby competition, one that also serves as the continent’s qualification pathway to the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
Gracing the occasion were representatives from URU’s key stakeholders and premium partners, including the Ministry of Education and Sports, the National Council of Sports, Nile Breweries Limited, MTN Uganda, and Hariss International.
These partners reaffirmed their commitment to the growth and visibility of rugby in Uganda and across the continent.
The tournament will take place from July 8 to July 20, 2025, at the Mandela National Stadium – Namboole, and will feature eight top African rugby nations battling for continental glory.
The participating nations include: Zimbabwe (2024 champions), Uganda (hosts), Namibia, Kenya, Algeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco (qualified via the 2025 North Africa Repechage).
The tournament follows a knockout format, starting at the quarterfinal stage. Uganda, 2007 champions, will kick off their campaign in a blockbuster quarterfinal against regional rivals Kenya.
The eventual winner of the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup will automatically qualify for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The runner-up will proceed to a repechage match against runners-up from Asia, also to be hosted in Uganda, with the winner proceeding to the final global repechage tournament for the remaining qualification slot.
Speaking at the launch, URU President Godwin Kayangwe said:
“Hosting the Rugby Africa Cup, also a World Cup qualifier, is not just a URU milestone; it is a national moment. Last year, we demonstrated that Uganda has the capability and infrastructure to host world-class rugby. This year, we raise the stakes, and we are glad to have all these incredible partners on board.
“As a nation, this is our World Cup journey, on home soil. Every chant from the stands will be part of history in the making. This is a rallying call to every Ugandan; stand with the Rugby Cranes as we aim to qualify for Australia 2027.”
Chairman of the International Local Organising Committee (ILOC) and also NCS Chairman Ambrose Tashobya stated:
“This tournament is a powerful platform to promote Uganda’s sporting excellence and unity. We are proud to back URU and its partners in delivering a successful and inclusive Rugby Africa Cup. As both NCS and ILOC, our focus is on delivering an even higher standard of organisation and fan engagement. This tournament belongs to Uganda, and together with our partners, we’re committed to creating a world-class event that reflects the strength, ambition, and unity of our nation.”
As part of the tournament festivities, Uganda will proudly host the Webb Ellis Cup, the most coveted trophy in international rugby and the ultimate symbol of global excellence.
Its arrival will mark a historic first for the country, providing Ugandans with a rare opportunity to experience the spirit and ambition of the Rugby World Cup up close.
This will form part of a national celebration and activation drive to rally fans and communities around the Rugby Cranes’ World Cup quest.