With the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup around the corner and the Webb Ellis Cup touring Uganda for the first time, the country’s rugby ambitions have never felt more real.
On Tuesday, a delegation from the Uganda Rugby Union (URU) and longtime sponsor Nile Breweries paid a symbolic visit to the South African High Commission in Kampala, signaling unity, shared vision and rising hopes.
Led by URU CEO Isaac Lutwama Nsubuga and sponsors’ Head of Marketing Wangechi Gitahi, the group was welcomed by Mr. Solly Sebola, South Africa’s Acting Head of Mission in Uganda.
The visit underscored the strong rugby ties between the two nations and helped set the tone for a historic month.
At the center of the meeting was South Africa’s 2023 World Cup win and the Webb Ellis Cup they’ll be sharing with Uganda on a symbolic tour. For a country chasing its first Rugby World Cup appearance, the visit of rugby’s biggest prize is more than ceremonial, it’s a spark.
“South Africa are not just champions, they’re a beacon,” said Lutwama. “Having the Webb Ellis Cup here is a reminder of what’s possible. With different support and South Africa’s solidarity, we believe this is Uganda’s time.”
The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, scheduled for July 8–20 at the refurbished Mandela National Stadium in Namboole, will feature eight top African nations in a fierce knockout format.
Uganda’s campaign kicks off with a fierce derby against Kenya. Only the winner of the tournament earns a direct ticket to the 2027 World Cup in Australia. The runner-up will face Asia’s second-best team also in Kampala for a final shot.
“Nile Special has stood by rugby through it all,” said Gitahi. “We believe in the Rugby Cranes and in the power of this game to unite and uplift.”
Mr. Sebola echoed the optimism, “Bringing the Cup to Uganda is about hope and inspiration. We want to see Uganda rise and maybe even stand alongside us in Australia.”
