Media Advisory: Press Conference – 17th Rugby Africa Annual General Meeting in Kampala

The press conference will take place in Kampala, Uganda on Friday, 27 February 2026 at 19:00 EAT, immediately following the conclusion of the Assembly. Media must apply for accreditation by Thursday, 26 February 2026 at 10:00 AM EAT via the link below.

KAMPALA, Uganda – Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa and Executive Board Member of World Rugby, will address members of the media following the 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Rugby Africa on Friday, 27 February 2026 in Kampala, Uganda.

The decisions taken at this Assembly are expected to shape the next phase of growth, accountability and institutional development across the continent.

The AGM represents Rugby Africa’s highest decision-making forum. The outcomes of this Assembly will directly influence leadership structures, gender representation requirements, governance standards and long-term strategic investment priorities for rugby across 40 member unions.

At the centre of discussions are proposed amendments to Rugby Africa’s Constitution, the organisation’s supreme governing document, which defines how leaders are elected, how accountability is upheld and how strategic direction is determined. Any amendments adopted will mark a significant structural shift in the governance of rugby in Africa.

To apply for accreditation: Click Here

To access official press release: Click Here

Event Details

Event: Press Conference – 17th Rugby Africa Annual General Meeting

Date: Friday, 27 February 2026

Time: 19:00 EAT (immediately following conclusion of the Assembly)

Venue: Kabira Country Club, Kampala, Uganda

Speakers Include:

• Herbert Mensah, President, Rugby Africa & Executive Board Member, World Rugby
• Nasser Bougja, Vice President, Rugby Africa
• Clare Barrell, Director of International Relations, Investment & Member Services, World Rugby
• Coralie Van Den Berg, Regional Partnerships Manager for Africa, World Rugby
• Maha Zaoui, General Manager of Rugby Africa
• Godwin Kayangwe, President, Uganda Rugby Union

During the press conference, speakers will:

• Announce official results of constitutional votes
• Confirm outcomes of Executive Committee elections
• Outline governance and gender inclusion reforms
• Present Rugby Africa’s strategic priorities for the coming cycle
• Take questions from accredited media

Media representatives and delegates are strongly encouraged to attend.

The Uganda Rugby Union, established in 1955, is the national governing body for rugby union in Uganda, headquartered in Kampala. Affiliated with World Rugby and Rugby Africa, URU oversees the development, promotion, and administration of the sport across the country, from grassroots programs to elite national teams.

URU manages the Uganda Cranes (men's national team), the Lady Cranes (women's national team), Uganda Sevens teams, and U20 teams which have achieved notable success on the continental stage, including multiple Rugby Africa Sevens Championship titles and Rugby World Cup qualifications. The Union supports over 20 member clubs, youth academies, and community initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity, physical fitness, and life skills through rugby.

Committed to Growing, Strengthening, and Empowerment, URU drives high performance training, referee development, and infrastructure projects while partnering with stakeholders to expand rugby's reach in Uganda and beyond.