CAPE TOWN, South Africa- Today, Rugby Africa President, Herbert Mensah, issues an official statement following his recent election to the Executive Board of World Rugby (https://www.world.rugby), the governing body of Rugby across the globe:
As Rugby Africa President, I am deeply honored to have been elected as a representative to the World Rugby Executive Board. This is a truly momentous occasion, not just for me, but for Rugby Africa and the entire African rugby community.
Once again, we have two African voices on the executive board at the same time.
To share this platform with Mark Alexander, President of South African Rugby, someone whose integrity, principles, and leadership I deeply admire, is a privilege.
The new executive board reflects rugby’s universal reach, bringing together representatives from diverse corners of the world, each with unique backgrounds and expertise. We have medics, lawyers, administrators, business leaders and those with deep experience in women’s rugby. Our diversity is a strength that will allow us to approach challenges and opportunities with a broader perspective.
For myself, one of the highlights of this election period was witnessing the inclusion of Lesotho and Egypt as full members of World Rugby. This achievement results from the relentless effort by the leadership of these unions and by Rugby Africa as a whole. It demonstrates what is possible when we collaborate and push for progress. Their inclusion is a proud moment, not only for these nations but for all of us who believe in the power of rugby to unite and inspire.
The road ahead will not be without its challenges. The global economy is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic and is now grappling with the impact of ongoing conflicts. Sponsorship and donor fatigue are real issues that demand innovative solutions. Yet, despite these difficulties, our beautiful sport continues to grow.
As I step into this new role, I am committed to contributing a business-minded approach and a strong focus on communication to our work. This is not about revolution but about thoughtful evolution—building on our strong foundations while finding new ways to adapt to the changing world around us.
Where does Rugby Africa sit in all this? Africa’s seat at this table is a responsibility. We must remind the world of the immense contributions Africa makes to the global sport, with its 1.4 billion people and unparalleled athletic potential.
As we move forward, I believe in the power of unity and collaboration. This is the moment to grow, to collaborate and to lead with purpose.
As they say, ‘Let the work begin.’
Download the official statement here: https://we.tl/t-6WSwEEjXCe
Mensah will serve as a representative for the Regional Association on the Executive Board of World Rugby, as one of the six elected representatives that will join the recently elected World Rugby Chair, Brett Robinson, and Chief Executive, Alan Gilpin.
The vote was conducted as a secret ballot overseen by scrutineers and independent observers in line with World Rugby Bye-Laws following the nominations and vetting process at the 2024 Interim Meeting of Council in Dublin, Ireland on Thursday, November 14.
Media Contact:
Nicole Vervelde
Communications Advisor
nicole.vervelde@rugbyafrique.com
About Rugby Africa:
Rugby Africa (www.RugbyAfrique.com) is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional associations under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women’s rugby. Rugby Africa organizes various competitions, including the qualifying tournaments for the Rugby World Cup and the Africa Sevens, a qualifying competition for the Olympic Games. With 40 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to promoting and developing rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
