Unlocking the Potential: The Rise of Rugby in Uganda

By David Frederick Kawooya.

Rugby in Uganda has transcended mere sport to become a symbol of national pride and unity. With a rich history dating back decades, the sport has experienced significant growth and development, fueled by passionate players, dedicated administrators, and fervent support from fans across the country.

The recent motion presented by Hon. Andrew Oulanya Ojok in the Parliament of Uganda on April 6th, 2024, underscores Uganda’s commitment to advancing rugby within her borders. The unanimous adoption of the motion, forwarded to the Executive for further action, signifies a pivotal moment in Uganda’s rugby journey. It reflects not only the aspirations of the Uganda Rugby Union but also the collective ambition of the nation to elevate rugby to new heights.

Central to this ambition is Uganda’s successful bid to host the Africa Cup for two consecutive years, in 2024 and 2025. Awarded by Rugby Africa on February 19th, 2024, this prestigious tournament presents an unparalleled opportunity for Uganda to showcase her sporting prowess on the continental stage. The Africa Cup, renowned as the most prestigious XV’s rugby tournament on the continent, will not only attract top-tier talent but also shine a spotlight on Uganda’s burgeoning rugby scene. This year’s Africa Cup Edition will run from the 18th to 29th July 2024 in Kampala.

Furthermore, the edition of the Africa Cup in 2025 will serve as the qualifiers for the Rugby World Cup, to be held in Australia in 2027. This presents a momentous occasion for Ugandan rugby, offering a pathway for the national team to compete on the global stage. With dreams of playing at Rugby’s grandest event within reach, Uganda’s rugby community is poised to seize this opportunity with unwavering determination.

The development of rugby in Uganda extends beyond the professional realm to grassroots initiatives that form the bedrock of the sport. The Uganda Rugby Union Schools League XV, featuring powerhouse institutions such as Namilyango College, St. Mary’s College Kisubi (SMACK), King’s College Budo, Hana Mixed International School, serve as breeding grounds for future stars. Many of Uganda’s senior rugby players, including Phillip Wokorach, Ivan Magomu, Timothy Kisiga, Kasiito Adrian, honed their skills on these hallowed grounds, laying the foundation for their successful careers.

Moreover, the consistent participation of Uganda’s sevens team in international competitions, such as the HSBC Sevens Challenger Series and the All Africa Games, has bolstered the sport’s popularity nationwide. The upcoming participation in the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Challenger in Munich underscores Uganda’s growing presence on the global stage. As they prepare to face formidable opponents in Pool B, including Hong Kong China, Tonga, and Mexico, Uganda’s sevens team epitomizes the spirit of resilience and determination that defines Ugandan rugby.

However, amidst these triumphs lies the pressing need for increased investment in the sport. While hosting the Africa Cup is a significant milestone, it also highlights the financial challenges faced by Uganda Rugby. The estimated funding requirement of UGX 2,546,276,000 for this year’s edition underscores the need for sustained support from the government and other stakeholders. Beyond hosting tournaments, investment in infrastructure, player development programs, and grassroots initiatives are essential to ensure the long-term growth and sustainability of rugby in Uganda.

In conclusion, the rise of rugby in Uganda is a testament to the passion, dedication, and talent of its players and administrators. From grassroots development to international success, rugby has become an integral part of Uganda’s sporting landscape. As the nation prepares to host the Africa Cup and embark on the road to the Rugby World Cup, the time is ripe for increased investment and support from all quarters. By unlocking the full potential of rugby, Uganda can continue to inspire generations and leave an indelible mark on the global rugby community.