Rugby Africa update Sep 7

New Ghana Rugby Logo Approved by Board in Four Cities The new, or rather revised, logo of Ghana Rugby came about as a result of a review of the branding of the Rugby Union that was founded in 2003 as the Ghana Rugby Association ACCRA, Ghana, September 4, 2019/ -- The Ghana Rugby (https://GhanaRugby.org/) Board yesterday approved a revised version of its logo during a Board meeting that was conducted via Skype with members situated in four different cities. According to the President of Ghana Rugby, Mr Herbert Mensah, his administration adopted an aggressive approach to embracing technology from the first day since taking over on 5 June 2014. “Rugby is about men, women, boys and girls enjoying the many benefits of the second-largest team sport in the world. Off-the-field performance, however, is essential to ensure the continued growth of the sport. Using technology to conduct Board meetings even though members are scattered around the globe is one of the ways to overcome governance challenges,” Mensah said. The meeting linked up members of the Ghana Rugby Board in Accra-Ghana, London-UK, Pretoria-South Africa and Cape Town-South Africa for a marathon four-hour meeting using Skype as a collaboration tool. The new, or rather revised, logo of Ghana Rugby came about as a result of a review of the branding of the Rugby Union that was founded in 2003 as the Ghana Rugby Association and has been operating as the Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) since the Mensah administration took over in 2014. “The rugby world and the GRFU has been referring to the rugby body that is a full member of both Rugby Africa and World Rugby as ‘Ghana Rugby’. In addition, we have found that the logo that has been in use have certain restrictions when applied to items such as kit and equipment,” Mensah explained. The revised Ghana Rugby logo retained the eagle which is a national symbol of Ghana. The eagle head is displayed on a red shield with a border that makes use of the other colours of the Ghana national flag, green and yellow. The name, “Ghana Rugby” is displayed below the shield on a curved banner. The brand team is also looking at extensions of the logo to be used to differentiate specific programmes. This will be done through the use of different coloured shields where green, for example, will be used for youth programmes as it symbolises growth. The revised logo, as well as the revised design of the jerseys to be used during the Rugby Africa international tournaments, were approved during the Board meeting that included the review of operations and planning for the next 18 months. Ghana Rugby has a busy schedule for the rest of the year with two Olympic qualifiers for both the women’s sevens and men’s sevens teams, as well as an elimination match against Botswana in the new Rugby Africa Cup tournament. The Ghana Women’s 7s Rugby Eagles will be moving to Tunisia in the first week of October to prepare for the Olympics Qualifier against eleven other top African women’s 7s teams. This will be the first time that a Ghana women’s team competes in the Rugby Africa circuit. In November the men’s 7s team will be moving to Johannesburg-South Africa to compete in another 2020 Olympics qualifier against thirteen of Africa’s best. The year will be concluded with a men’s 15s international match against Botswana that will be played in Elmina on the Nduom Sports Stadium. This will be the first of four critical elimination matches in the new Rugby Africa Cup that will be played by Africa’s top men’s 15s teams. A significant part of the Board Meeting was also spent on discussing the funding strategy of Ghana Rugby. Mensah said, “As exhibited in a World Rugby documentary about Ghana Rugby the rapid growth of the union has also brought about rapid and huge demands for funds to enable us to fulfil both what is expected and what we have planned. The future of rugby in Ghana is truly in the hands of corporate institutions such as the Panafrican Equipment Group, Interplast, Conserveria through their Gino brands, Sunda International and others who have supported us in the past and who will hopefully continue to do so.”

Host union, Lesotho emerged winners of the Rugby Africa Regional Sevens tournament The 2019 edition of the Rugby Africa Regional Sevens tournament was held in Lesotho on the 31st August and 1st September, 2019 CAPE TOWN, South Africa, September 4, 2019/ -- Lesotho Rugby Union played host to Mozambique and Eswatini Rugby Unions for the second edition of Rugby Africa (http://www.RugbyAfrique.com/) Sevens, Southern Region. The tournament was held in the Tabaseka District of the Kingdom of Lesotho. The host union, Lesotho emerged winners after winning all the matches following around robin league competition. Lesotho were in a fine form. They displayed good rugby and teamwork which propelled them to glory over the two days tournament. They received a huge motivation from passionate home fans who supported them all the way. “We are happy to be given the opportunity to host this tournament and we thank Rugby Afrique for the efforts they are making to grow rugby in the region”, said the Vice-President of Lesotho Rugby Union. Mozambique, who were participating for the first time in a Rugby Afrique organised tournament emerged second. The Mozambique team was accompanied by their Union President , Mr Luis Reves who expressed his gratitude to Rugby Africa for inviting the to the tournament. “We are optimistic that our participation in this tournament will boost our efforts to build and grow the game in Mozambique, and we look forward to the further collaboration with Rugby Afrique in future”, said President Luis. Eswatini Rugby Union were ranked third. “We believe that was a great learning for us so we shall go back and put into practice all that we have experienced here in order to become better” pointed out Mr Bandile, the head of delegation. The Minister of Sports in Lesotho graced the tournament where she reiterated the government’s commitment to grow and spread the game across the country and within the SADC region. Ranking. Gold: Lesotho Silver: Mozambique Bronze: Eswatini Top Try Scorer: Nuro Ismael Abdul (Mozambique) Most Valuable Player: Alex Bokane (Lesotho) Rugby: International 7s is back in Zambia The hosts who have been defending the trophy since inception in 2016 will be hoping to continue their fine run at this year's event LUSAKA, Zambia, September 2, 2019/ -- The 4th edition of the Zambia International Sevens rugby tournament is back in Lusaka, Zambia. The hosts who have been defending the trophy since inception in 2016 will be hoping to continue their fine run at this year's event. Coach Andrew Kaminsa who has been keenly watching the local 7s played so far (Muf 7s and Roan 7s) will definitely keep his options open as he edges closer to announce his final list in the next few days before kick off in the 2 days tournament t be played on 6th & 7th September, 2019. Some of the Teams expected to feature at the 2019 tournament include but not limited to 1. Zambia Nkwazi 2. Zambia Lechwe 3. Zimbabwe Cheeters 4. Namibia 5. Lesotho 6. Botswana 7. Malawi 8. Blue Bulls 9. JHB Bobbies 10. President's Select 11. Spartans Rugby 12. Sherminators The organizers have also invited 9 performing artists to grace the much anticipated After Party to be hosted at The Arena in the outskirts of Lusaka, Zambia. A Touch Rugby tournament has also been included to be played alongside the international event.

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Many thanks to the APO Group for including us on their media list.  JLP

Rugby Africa update - Aug 24

The Uganda Rugby Cranes coach today named the team that will take on Zimbabwe on 24th August in Harare

The Uganda Rugby Cranes will meet the Zimbabwe Sables for the second time this year after a loss in the home game (26-31)

KAMPALA, Uganda, August 21, 2019/ -- The Uganda Rugby Cranes coach, Robert Seguya today named the team that will take on Zimbabwe in the return leg of the Victoria Cup on 24th August 2019 in Harare. The Uganda Rugby Cranes will meet the Zimbabwe Sables for the second time this year after a loss in the home game. (26-31) The leadership of the team remains the same with Asuman Mugerwa as the Captain and Justin Kimono as Vice Captain. The South African High Commissioner, H. E Professor (Major General(rtd) Lekoa Solly Mollo, the US Ambassador to Uganda Deborah Malac and the CEO Nakasero Hospital Edward Rukwaro addressed the team with words of encouragement. The CEO of the Uganda Rugby Union, Ramsey Olinga and Peter Magona(Vice President, Commercial) were also present. "You are 2 matches away. Never rest and think you have made it and have won. It is the beginning and it shows that it's do-able but you need to work harder and really reflect on the blind spot you picked from the previous match."- H.E Lekoa Solly Mollo. "The heart and what's in your head are the most important tools that any sports team can have. You will be challenged, you will have difficulties, you will be tired some day you will not feel like it but it's very important to remember what you are playing for and that you have support right behind you."- U.S Ambassador Deborah Malac. "We believe and trust in you as a team. Go make us proud in Zimbabwe"- Dr Edward Rukwaro. The team is a mixture of youth and experience and are out to put their campaign back on track after their recent win at home against Zambia.(38-22) Uganda Cranes Squad: 1. Ssenteza Wycliff Santos 2. Kivumbi Saul 3. Kimbowa Collin 4. Mugerwa Asuman 5. Odugo Faragi 6. Kanyanya Ronald 7. Otto Micheal Steve Masendi 8. Olet Simon Peter 9. Odong Charles Uhuru 10. Asaba Brian 11. Ogena Pius 12. Ruhweza Ayera Desire Aloysius 13. Emong Eliphaz 14. Ofoyrwoth Aaron 15. Epilo Paul Emmanuel Reserves 16. Magomu Ivan Arthur 17. Masendi Paul 18. Okorach MicMollo 19. Munyani Ian Arnold 20. Wokorach Phillip 21. Semwami Daudi Ashraf 22. Simwende Kimono Justin 23. Kasito Adrian 24. Oketayot Byron

Rugby: Zimbabwe Sables Ready To Host Cranes The Sables are enjoying their unbeaten run after recording victories against all three opponents Kenya, Uganda and Zambia HARARE, Zimbabwe, August 21, 2019/ -- Zimbabwe Sables will be hosting Uganda’s Cranes in their return leg of the Victoria Cup at the Machinery Exchange Stadium, Harare Sports Club on Saturday the 24th of August. The Sables are enjoying their unbeaten run after recording victories against all three opponents Kenya, Uganda and Zambia, but the men in green and white promise not to be complacent ahead of the Cranes. Team Manager Jason Maritz said: “We are currently in camp preparing for Uganda, it will not be an easy match and at the back of our minds we know that the race for the championship is grounds enough for everyone to com harder at us.” “We have had a little bit more time to prepare for them and we are ready for another intense encounter.  “The Cranes are a tough side and they are coming for us, we are not taking this game lightly and we will brush up on previous mistakes.” Zimbabwe has been slapped with injuries that will once again result in a few team changes, previously the team lost Brendon Mandivenga who was the skipper at the time and he has been ruled out for the rest of the competition. Explosive centre Takudzwa Chieza has not recovered from a hamstring strain and will be available for the Cranes match, tentatively stalwart flanker Blithe Mavesera could miss out on the match because of a groin sprain, Matthew Mc Nab is also not available for section due to injury and Camron Harris who had been called in for this matches training squad is also injured and ruled out. The Sables have call on Saope Soko, a centre playing for the London Irish Wild Geese which is a feeder team to the London Irish first team and could use the services of another loose forward in Dylan Grogan who plays either a lock or a flanker. Meanwhile the Zimbabwe Women’s 15s will host the Probables versus Possibles selection match as one of the curtain raisers on Saturday. Newly appointed head coach Phillimon Machisa will be using live game conditions to select the players he will be working with ahead of the 18 September Test against Zambia in Lusaka. “This weekend is very important for the team as we get an opportunity to have an assessment on the progress we have made, and see the areas we still need to put more emphasis.  "We have been training hard, working on our team plays, defence and fitness, this has kept the momentum going and the commitment has been great" “It is therefore important that we have a look at all the girls as we prepare for Zambia and other international fixtures ahead,” said Machisa. The sables Training squad: Tatenda Rwenyu, Royal Mwale , Tyran Fagan , David Makanda , Keith Murray , Matthew Mandioma , Cameron Harrison , Godwin Mangenje , George Saungweme , Blithe Mavesere , Brian Nyuade , Biselele Tshamala , Godfrey Muzanargwo , Aiden Burnett , Hilton Mudariki , Ernest Mudzengerere, Jeremiah Jaravaza , Dudlee White – Sharpley, Takudzwa Chieza , Martin Mangongo , Chibuwe Ngoni , Daniel Capsopoulos , Shingirai Katsvere , Takudzwa Kumadiro , Kudakwashe Chiwanza , Rufaro Chikwaira , Tari Mugariri Springbok Women qualify for 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup The win marked a clean sweep for the Springbok Women in the competition and wrapped up a full-house of points from their three matches JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 18, 2019/ -- Springbok Women’s coach Stanley Raubenheimer was delighted on Saturday as his charges booked their place in the 2021 Women’s Rugby World Cup in New Zealand with a 39-0 victory against Kenya in the deciding match of the qualifiers at the Bosman Stadium in Brakpan. Audio clips of Springbok Women’s coach Stanley Raubenheimer in English and Afrikaans: https://we.tl/t-8SvA2f1CO5  The win marked a clean sweep for the Springbok Women in the competition and wrapped up a full-house of points from their three matches following 89-5 and 73-0 victories against Uganda and Madagascar earlier in the tournament. The Springbok Women ran Kenya ragged early on, which saw them earn their fourth try early in the second quarter and take a 24-0 lead at the break, and they built on this is in a competitive second stanza in which they added three more tries to their tally for the 39-0 win. In the other match, Madagascar and Uganda played to 15-15 draw in a gripping encounter, in which both teams ran hard on attack and defended with intent. “I am very pleased for the players, they worked very hard to achieve this. They put in a great effort and they deserve this achievement,” a delighted Raubenheimer said after the match. He was pleased with the quality of his team’s performance throughout the qualifiers, but he said there was room for improvement as they prepare to face Spain once and Scotland twice in Port Elizabeth and Cape Town respectively in September and October. “We scored a number of tries in our three matches in this tournament, so we are on the right track in that regard,” said Raubenheimer. “But I think we can improve on our accuracy on attack, and I also think we need to work on our defence and kicking game. The good thing is that we will be able to work on those areas in the next few matches.” Raubenheimer drew comfort from the fact that he had close to two years to prepare his team for the international showpiece down-under, and said: “It will certainly helps to qualify so well in advance. We didn’t participate in the 2017 World Cup, so we need to ensure that we reach the current world standards. “The matches will also offer us an opportunity to experiment against quality teams, who are among the top 10 sides in Europe, and we can also try a few new things against them.” The Springbok Women started the match with a bang, as centre Zintle Mpupha made a good break through the defence at pace in the fourth minute and touched down, and hooker Lindelwa Gwala added their second try minutes later thanks to some encouraging forward play. The hosts continued to apply pressure as the match progressed thanks to their hard running on attack, and the rewards followed with Tayla Kinsey (scrumhalf) receiving a smart pass out wide with a clear tryline in front of her to score their third try. Snenhlanhla Shozi (winger) added the bonus-point try early in the second quarter as the team moved the ball wide into space, and this pushed the Springbok Women into a confidence-boosting 24-0 lead. Kenya fought back with intent before halftime and did well to retain possession and run hard at the home side, but they were denied any points as the Springbok Women’s effective defence stood firm. Kenya stepped up the quality of their attack and defence after the break and they did well to keep the action in the middle of the field for several minutes, but the Springbok Women’s determined efforts saw Hele break through for their fifth try in the third quarter to stretch their lead to 29-0. They continued to make their presence felt in the dying minutes, with replacement scrumhalf Mathrin Simmers taking advantage of an overlap and lock Rights Mkhari forcing her way over the chalk with a minute to play for a convincing 39-0 victory. The first half between Uganda and Madagascar was hard-fought, with both sides running hard on attack and trying to find gaps in the defence, but their efforts were met by strong resistance as both teams tackled with purpose. Uganda, however, managed to cross the tryline once in the first half, while Madagascar were unsuccessful in their attempts, as handling errors at vital times cost them dearly. They opted for penalty goals instead to get points on the board, but they only managed to slot over one, which saw them enter the break 7-3 down. Madagascar built on this minutes into the second half as they capitalised on having an extra player on the field after Uganda received a yellow card, which pushed them into an 8-7 lead, and they added another try several minutes later. Uganda struck back with a penalty goal and their second try in the fourth quarter, which saw them level the scores at 15-15. The dying minutes were intense as Uganda camped in the opposition’s half and tried hard to break the deadlock, but the tenacious defence allowed them to hold on for the draw.  The two sponsors of the competition are Société Générale, one of Europe's leading financial services groups, and APOGroup, the leading media relations consultancy and press release distribution service in Africa. Scorers: Springbok Women 39 (24) – Tries: Zintle Mpupha, Lindelwa Gwala, Tayla Kinsey, Snenhlanhla Shozi, Aseza Hele, Mathrin Simmers, Rights Mkhari. Conversions: Tayla Kinsey (2).

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Many thanks to the APO Group for including us on their media list.  JLP

Rugby Africa update

Former Ghana Journalists Association President lauds Ghana Rugby President Herbert Mensah for contribution He was speaking during the Ghana Journalists Association’s commemoration of its 70th anniversary ACCRA, Ghana, August 16, 2019/ -- Former President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Kabral Blay-Amihere has praised Ghanaian businessman and philanthropist Herbert Mensah for his foresight and contribution to the growth and development of journalism in Ghana. Mr. Kabral Blay Amihere who also served as Ghana’s High Commissioner to Ivory Coast and Sierra Leone between 2001-2009 said it was sponsorship from private business men in Ghana like Herbert Mensah in the early ’90s which helped propel independent journalism in Ghana through its best journalist award scheme. He was speaking during the Ghana Journalists Association’s commemoration of its 70th anniversary on Thursday, August 15, 2019, at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel in Accra.   ”The GJA has come a long way. When I joined the GJA in the 80’s it was dangerous to be a journalist in Ghana. Before I became President of the GJA in 1993, the government had completely hijacked the GJA and its best journalist award scheme” the former GJA President revealed. ”The government at the time selected their favourite journalists for awards. We had no offices and no private support”. Kabral Blay-Amihere recollected the timely intervention of private individuals who came along to sponsor the GJA and help it to grow independently. ”I have to acknowledge and thank Herbert Mensah without whose support and sponsorship we couldn’t have freed ourselves from government control in those days. We also had support from Sam Jonah and Amakye Dede in those early days. We thank them for their support when we needed it most to develop and grow journalism in Ghana.” He also praised President J.A Kufuor for providing the International Press Centre to the GJA. The commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the GJA also involved the cutting of anniversary cake and reflections on the history and relevance of the GJA by some distinguished personalities including Prof. H. Kwasi Prempeh, head of the Ghana Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), as Guest Speaker. Other key speakers at the event also included Dr G.T. Anim, the first Ghanaian General Manager of the Ghana News Agency (GNA).

Rugby - 2023 Olympic Games: Zambia's Future Olympians The young talent will be drawn from all the 10 Provinces of Zambia and will be used as a talent identification avenue for the 2023 Olympic Games LUSAKA, Zambia, August 14, 2019/ -- Saturday 17th August, 2019 will bring see the under 14 to 18 girls and boys from across the country converge at the Olympic Youth Development Centre in Lusaka to compete in a Youth Rugby Tournament. The young talent will be drawn from all the 10 Provinces of Zambia and will be used as a talent identification avenue for the 2023 Olympic Games set for Senegal in West Africa. Get Into Rugby Zambia Manager Tom Chaloba reviewed this on Wednesday. He said "As a Union we are very excited about the first African Olympic Games and we want to leave no stones unturned as far as our preparations are concerned. We have lined up a number of games in different locations with a view of identifying raw untapped talent which can/will be nurtured in readiness for the 2023 games". "So far this year, more than 1,000 girls and boys have taken part in the games across towns such as Livingstone, Lusaka, Kitwe, Ndola, Luanshya, Mufulira, Kabwe and Chililabombwe. We also had Inter-Provincial Rugby games played in Chipata, Eastern Province where a number of school going kids participated", he added. The Zambia Rugby Union through its (Get Into Rugby Zambia) partnerships with the Tag Rugby Trust and the Bhubesi Pride Foundation has really proven to be an effective way to get a hold of the young talent in areas that seemed unreachable in the past. Women’s Rugby World Cup African Qualifiers: Kenya defeated Uganda on Tuesday in Johannesburg during the Rugby Africa Women’s Cup Kenya’s Lionesses ended the game on top with a convincing 37-5 victory, beating the Lady Cranes of Uganda on Tuesday in Johannesburg, South Africa JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 13, 2019/ -- On Tuesday, Kenya played against Uganda during the 2019 Rugby Africa Women's Cup (www.RugbyAfrique.com), in a qualifier for the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup. In an entertaining game, the Lionesses thumped the Lady Cranes 37-5. Kenya applied pressure on their East African neighbors from the first whistle and they managed to open the scoring early on. Grace Adhiambo was the lady who drilled in three points after the Lionesses were awarded a penalty. The score was 3-0 to Kenya at the interval following a low scoring first-half which saw Uganda grow in confidence, but the Lady Cranes could not record a point. An entertaining second-half followed as the Lionesses extended their lead through dot-downs from Janet Okello (a brace of tries) and Staycy Atieno. The Lady Cranes managed to score a try through Alice Nandawula, but Adhiambo completed her hat-trick of tries before Janet Owino sealed Kenya's 37-5 victory over Uganda with a late try. Kenya coach Felix Oloo was pleased with his charges’ performance after they recorded their second successive win in the tournament and he is also confident of masterminding a victory over South Africa in their last match. "We played according to our game plan against Uganda. At the same time, we are also happy to have tested all of the players in our squad," he said. "We are taking it one game at a time and it will be a totally different match against South Africa. We will adopt a different approach. We are expecting a good result from the final game." Uganda coach Edgar Lemerigar felt that his troops produced an improved performance against Kenya following their disappointing defeat to South Africa in their opening game. "We played very well. We improved a lot from the first game against South Africa. We were trailing 3-0 during the half-time break. We got everything right," he said. "However, we opened up in the final stages of the second-half as we committed defensive errors. Yes, we can win our last game (against Madagascar) if we play like we did in the first-half against Kenya." The next games will be played on Saturday, August 17 in Johannesburg with Kenya taking on tournament hosts South Africa, while Uganda are set to face Madagascar. The top-ranked team in the group after three rounds of matches will be crowned champions of the 2019 Rugby Africa Women's Cup and will qualify for the Women's Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand in 2021.

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Many thanks to the APO Group for including us on their media list.  JLP

Rugby Africa update - week ending Aug 10

Rugby World Cup African Qualifiers: South Africa defeated Uganda on Friday in Johannesburg during the Rugby Africa Gold Cup

South Africa’s Springbok Women ended the game on top with a winning score of 89-5, beating Lady Cranes of Uganda on Friday in Johannesburg, South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa, August 9, 2019/ -- On Friday the Springbok Women played against the Lady Cranes during the 2019 Rugby Africa Women's Cup (www.RugbyAfrique.com), a qualifier for the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup. In a one-sided game, South Africa thumped Uganda 89-5. South Africa dominated the match from start to finish with Uganda struggling to contain the Springboks. Rights Mkhari stole the show in the first-half for the tournament hosts as she grabbed three tries within the first 20 minutes. Zintle Mpupha (brace), Eloise Webb, Yonela Ngxingolo, Ayanda Malinga and Sinazo Mcatshulwa also grabbed tries against the Lady Cranes. South Africa were leading 62-0 against Uganda during the half-time break having scored an impressive 10 tries. Pressure mounted on the Lady Cranes after the restart as Webb bagged her hat-trick and Mcatshulwa grabbed a brace, while Snenhlanhla Shozi added her name to the score sheet. Uganda fought back towards the end of the game and they scored a try through Samiya Ayikoru, but Shozi grabbed her brace to seal South Africa's emphatic 89-5 win over Uganda. South Africa coach Stanley Raubenheimer was delighted with his charges’ display, but he feels there is still room for improvement. "Overall, I am happy with the girls' performance because you cannot complain about a scoreline like that, but there are a few things which we need to work on," he said. "There were a few tries that we did not convert. We should have been a little more clinical. We will have to improve ahead of the next match." Meanwhile, Uganda coach Edgar Lemerigar is confident his team can bounce back against Kenya. "In the first-half, you could see the element of intimidation from the girls, but in the second-half, they put up a better show in terms of defending and realignment," he said. "Yes, going forward we can beat Kenya.We just have to fix the errors which we made against South Africa." The next games are set to be played on Tuesday, August 13 with South Africa facing Madagascar, while Uganda take on their neighbours Kenya. The top-ranked team in the group after three rounds of matches will be crowned champions of the 2019 Rugby Africa Women's Cup and will qualify for the Women's Rugby World Cup to be held in New Zealand in 2021.

Rugby – Kenya: 2019 Safari Sevens Scheduled for 18th-20th October Safari Sevens has been the launch pad for the careers of many a great rugby talent NAIROBI, Kenya, August 8, 2019/ -- The 23rd Edition of Safari Sevens will be held on the Mashujaa Day weekend, 18th-20th October at the RFUEA Grounds. The tournament made its return to this venue in 2018 after a seven-year hiatus with Samurai lifting the 2018 title, beating Shujaa 21-14 in an enthralling final. Safari Sevens has been the launch pad for the careers of many a great rugby talent, the likes of Kenya Sevens greats Steve Gichuki, Ken Aswani, Felix Ochieng, Benjamin Ayimba, Oscar Osir, the Emonyi brothers Humphrey Kayange and Collins Injera, to name but a few. “We’re very excited about the Safari 7s once again as we continue to consolidate on past gains. Many teams that are going into HSBC World Sevens Series and/or the 2020 Tokyo Olympics are looking at an ideal preparation and this year’s tournament offers just that. We will be unveiling partners as we close in on the tournament and so far the response from various current and potential partners has been very positive,” said the KRU Chairman, Oduor Gangla. The invited teams are: Defending Champions Samurai, France, England, Canada, Japan, Botswana, USA, South Africa, Portugal, Spain, Nigeria, Red Wailers, Ghana, Apache, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Hong Kong, Uganda and Russia. “It promises to be a highly competitive, energy charged tournament with lots of entertainment and activities including for families. There will be a lot of activities in the village and this presents an opportunity for vendors to come and sell their products to the fans in attendance. This goes to show that the tournament is all rounded from a sports to a business perspective.” Concluded Gangla. Roll of honour   YEAR   WINNER   1996   Public Schools Wanderers (U.K)   1997   Kenya   1998   Bristol University (England)   1999   Public Schools Wanderers (U.K)   2000   Shujaa   2001   British Army (U.K)   2002   British Army (U.K)   2003   Kenya   2004   Kenya   2005   Samoa   2006   Emerging Springboks (South Africa)   2007   Emerging Springboks (South Africa)   2008   Kenya   2009   Kenya   2010   Kenya   2011   Samoa   2012   South Africa Elite Player Development   2013   Shujaa   2014   Welsh Warriors (Wales)   2015   Samurai   2016   Shujaa   2017   NOT PLAYED   2018   Samurai Uganda – Rugby: Get Into Rugby at Ibanda Primary Teachers College (PTC) The target audience were the games teachers and students from primary/ secondary schools and institutions KAMPALA, Uganda, August 6, 2019/ -- The Uganda Rugby Union (http://UgandaRugby.com) held a 2-day GIR / TAG RUGBY activity at St. George's Ibanda Primary Teachers College where 68 coaches trained and 147 students were trained. The target audience were the games teachers and students from primary/ secondary schools and institutions. The primary schools and secondary schools involved were St. Theresa Primary, Ibanda Demo Primary, Nyakatukuru Primary, St.George's Primary, Kashabya Primary, Ibanda Kiburura, Ibanda International school, Bugarama Primary, Ibanda Secondary School,Citizen SS St. Georges PTC. The GIR program was conducted by Kasasa Yayiro, the Rugby Manager at the Uganda Rugby Union and Tim Iraka, the Rugby Development Officer of Western Uganda. Vian Matsiko, the upcountry representative on the Uganda Rugby Union Executive was also present. "The program was successful being the first time in the area. GIR has the potential to grow and our next program will be communicated soon."- Kasasa, rugby Manager.

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Many thanks to the APO Group for including us on their media list.  JLP

Rugby Africa update : week ending Aug 3

Rugby World Cup: Namibia Warm-Up Matches Confirmed

Namibia departs to Japan on the 12th of September 2019

WINDHOEK, Namibia, August 2, 2019/ -- Namibia continues to undergo preparations for the 2019 Rugby World Cup with two confirmed games scheduled before they set off to Japan in September. The last match Namibia played was against Russia at the World Rugby Nations Cup in Uruguay where they walked out of the tournament with one win in the bag over the host nation. Since coming back from the Nations Cup the 50 Preliminary Squad has undergone vigorous strength and conditioning training. After ongoing discussions to secure a South African franchise team who would available to play Namibia prior to the World Cup, the Namibian Rugby Union (www.NamibianRugby.com) confirmed participation of the Southern Kings who compete in the Guinness Pro14. The first match will take place on Saturday, the 31st of August 2019 at the Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek. By this date the official Namibian World Cup Team would have been announced. Information regarding the match will be communicated closer to the time. The second one – with great excitement - is to take place in the coastal town of Walvis Bay at the Walvis Bay High School Stadium on Saturday the 7th of August 2019. “We are delighted that we could finalize these matches with the help of the South African Rugby Union and World Rugby. We see the Southern Kings as good opposition for preparation. Having the matches in two different towns is not only an opportunity to have fans come and witness the team in other parts of the country as most matches are held in Windhoek, but getting game time in humid and sea level climate is an important aspect of preparation for competing in Japan” President of the NRU, Mr. Edward Mensah, said.  “We are in a very fortunate position to have managed to secure pre-season matches against two national teams that are heading to the World Cup in Japan next month,” ISUZU Southern Kings Team Manager, Zingi Hela, said. “We can now confirm that after our trip to Georgia we have agreed with the Namibian Rugby Union that we will take on their national team in two important pre-season matches which the Namibian team will use for their preparations for the World Cup. “We are confident that the matches will be tough and give us the competitiveness that we are seeking ahead of our season, and we will be able to provide the same for Namibia before they depart for Japan.” As part of their Pro14 preparations, the Southern Kings are also scheduled to play World Cup bound Georgia on Tuesday the 27th of August. The agreement between Namibia and the Southern Kings is beneficial to both as they will assist in preparing Namibia for the 2019 Rugby World Cup and these matches are important for them in getting ready for their 2019/2020 Pro14 season. Namibia departs to Japan on the 12th of September 2019. Inaugural Ghana-Nigeria Rugby President's Cup To Kick Off The Ghana-Nigeria President’s Cup was announced earlier this year in March ELMINA, Ghana, August 2, 2019/ -- The inaugural first of two matches in the 2019 Ghana-Nigeria Rugby President's Cup is set to kick off tomorrow 3 August 2019 at 11 am on the Nduom Sports Stadium in Elmina Ghana. This historic event will also mark the end of the 2019 July WARS (West African Rugby Series) Men’s XVs Ghana Invitational Tournament. The Ghana-Nigeria President’s Cup was announced earlier this year in March by the Presidents of Ghana Rugby, Mr Herbert Mensah, and the President of the Nigeria Rugby Football Federation, Mr  Kelechukwu Mbagwu. Mensah said at the time that a principle decision was reached between himself and Kelechi Mbagwu in Marrakech-Morocco during the 13th General Assembly of Rugby Africa to kickstart possible wider international cooperation with the President’s Cup. “Everybody knows that the tournament structure of Rugby Africa falls short to give Rugby nations in Africa enough match exposure to ‘breed’ the next Rugby World Cup participants besides for South Africa and Namibia. Even Rugby Africa has asked Members to seriously look at friendly internationals between regional states,” Mensah said. According to Kelechukwu Mbagwu, President of the NRFF, Nigeria and Ghana have had a long and exciting history of sports rivalry. At the launch announcement, Mbagwu said, “It’s been the very best of rivalries, the rivalry between Siblings. I remember those epic Nigeria/Ghana soccer matches-: the Green Eagles against the Black Stars and the Nigeria/Ghana sports festival when Modupe Oshikoya ran against Alice Annan. Those are the thrilling images I see when I think of this new Nigeria-Ghana tussle.” The NRFF President continued to say that he is proud and honoured to be amongst the founders of what can only be seen as a traditional coming together of two mighty brothers of whom mother Africa can be justly proud. Mbagwu concluded by saying, “Ghana have set themselves an extremely high bar with their dynamic and vital President, Herbert Mensah, leading the way but when we get on the field it will be a different story. Long live the Nigeria/Ghana detente.” Mr Charles Yapo, Rugby Africa Development Manager for the Region, said at the time of the launch that this is a very good initiative that will strengthen the relationship between these two nations in terms of rugby and allow players to have a little more playtime. “It is also an opportunity to encourage other rugby nations to follow in the footsteps of Ghana and Nigeria. For the 2019 season, Rugby Africa encourages and supports this kind of initiative. Congratulations and Rugby Africa is at your side,” Yapo said The match will also mark the end of the July 2019 WARS Men’s XVs Ghana Invitational Tournament. Ivory Coast has already managed to be crowned WARS Men’s Champions by beating both Ghana and Nigeria. The match on Saturday will thus also be the deciding match on who will be the runners-up in the historic event initiated that was initiated by Ghana Rugby’s President, Mr Herbert Mensah. The lineups for the match between Nigeria and the Ivory Coast were: Nigeria First XV: 22. Sunday Bassey 2. Umar Ibrahim Suraj 3. Godwin Dina Otoro JR 4. Isaac Cato Sani 5. John Terseer Kura 6. Alex Onome Richard 7. Ekubi Samuel Ekpo 8. Jude Peter Abrakson 9. Hassan Muhammed 10. Nuhu Ibrahim Samila 11. Alfred Sunday Oche 12. Joshua Effiong Etim 13. Onori-Oyiza Jude Emmanuel Jatto 14. Abdulmalik Atomuhaku Salihu 15. Gebriel Etim John Substitutes: 16. Mohammad Ahmad Umar 1. Ricky Ezenwa Nwagbara 17. Abduljelili Adeniyi Adeshina 18. Suleimon Olatunde Abdulganiyu 19. David Kazeem Oyekanmi 20. Monday Henry Omoragieva 21. Jeremiah Peter 23. Ezikiel Essien Tom Coach: Bronson Weir Ghana First XV: 1. Andrews Kwamena  Amissah 2. Prince Boamah 3. Christian  Percy Adamson 4. Calestus Bosoka 5. Micheal  Arthur 6. Gideon Klugey 7. Alexander Dorpenyo 8. Eric  Tettegah 9. Richard Kwesi 10. Francis Kweku Mensah-Donkor  11. Solomon Baba Akumba 12. Michael Acquay 13. Jerry Danquah  14. Kofi Montchon 15. Abdul Jalilu Yussif Substitutes: 16. Abdul Wahid  Illiasu 24. Seidu  Ibrahim 18. Jason Kweku Dzata  19. Lukman Yaya 25. Eric Acquah  21. John Donkor 22. Emmanuel Terakuu 23. Suwabiru Salim  Amuzuloh Coach:  Lovemore ‘Dallas’ Kuzorera Match Officials: Match Referee: Mathias Bvepfepfe (Zimbabwe) Assistant Referees: Jeffrey Chiwanda (Zimbabwe) and Clement Dennis (Ghana) Rugby – Nigeria: Bronson Weir names Nigerian Team to face Ivory Coast The eagerly-anticipated clash at the Nduom Stadium Elmina is the tie of the series and Weir's’ side will be looking to put in a strong performance LAGOS, Nigeria, July 31, 2019/ -- Black Stallions Coach, Bronson Weir has named his Nigerian side to face Ivory Coast on Wednesday in their first match of the 2019 West African Series Championship. Further to Ivory Coast's 22-12 victory over Ghana, the eagerly-anticipated clash at the Nduom Stadium Elmina is the tie of the series and Weir's’ side will be looking to put in a strong performance. “I think it is quite clear. To win the series, we have to get a good result against Ivory Coast and to do that, we have to beat them in the contest area,” said Weir. "They are quite good at the breakdown and decent in the air , both areas are a priority for us. Traditionally, Nigeria and Ivory Coast games are always very close, they are tough affairs, so our ability to finish the game strongly is going to be vital. As you know, we had to release Christian Ogar due to lingering injury. captain, Azeez Ladipo is away in the US playing summer sevens but Police winger, Maalik is back in the squad after a long spell away from the team. So we have about eight new boys and we will throw some of them straight in tomorrow. “I can tell you everyone inside our camp believes we can do really well. We are very much looking forward to Wednesday.” Nigerian team to face Ivory Coast  Starting line up (debutants are astericked) 15. Gabriel Etim John * (Fullback) 14. Abdulmalik Atomulaku (Right Wing) 13. Onori-Oyiza Jude Emmanuel Jatto (Outside Center/ Captain) 12. Joshua Effiong Etim (Inside Center) 11. Alfred Sunday Oche (Right wing) 10. Nuhu Ibrahim Samaila (Fly half) 9. Hassan Mohammed (Scrum half) 8. Jude Peter Abrakson * (No 8) 7. Ekubi Samuel Ekpo (Flanker) 6. Alex Onome Richard (Flanker) 5. John Terseer Kura (Lock) 4. Isaac Cato Sani (Lock) 3. Godwin Dina Otoro JR (Prop) 2. Umar Ibrahim Suraj (Hooker) 1. Ricky Ezenwa Nwagbara (Prop) Replacements 16. Mohammed Ahmad Umar 17. Sunday Bassey 18. Abduljelili Adeniyi Adeshina 19. Suleiman Olatunde Abdulganiyu 20. Oyekanmi David Kazeem 21. Monday Henry Omoragieva 22. Jeremiah Peter 23. Ezekiel Tom Non playing 24. Daniel John Christopher non playing for 1st match

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Many thanks to the APO Group for including us on their media list.  JLP