Zimbabwe Prepares for Rugby World Cup 2027 with Support from Rugby Africa
His Excellency Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, welcomed Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa, to State House today to discuss the nation’s preparation for the Rugby World Cup 2027, one of the largest sporting events globally.
After 34 years, Zimbabwe returns to the Rugby World Cup, following their triumph in the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup in Kampala. The victory secured the Zimbabwe Sables’ qualification, making Zimbabwe the only African team to qualify through the regional competition, alongside reigning champions South Africa, who qualify automatically.
The meeting, organised by the Zimbabwe Rugby Union, highlighted the importance of collaboration between national governments, sports ministries, and continental rugby bodies to provide African teams with the structures, preparation, and resources necessary to compete at the highest level.
Speaking after the meeting, Herbert Mensah said: “I had the honour of meeting President Mnangagwa today. What stood out is the government’s commitment to the Zimbabwe Sables and the future of rugby in Zimbabwe. This level of support contributes massively to what the team can achieve. The Zimbabwe Sables have earned their place back on the world stage after 34 years, and every Zimbabwean should be proud. When government, the union, and Rugby Africa work together with a clear vision, the possibilities are enormous. Our responsibility now is to build the structures, preparation, and unity around these players so that they carry the pride of an entire nation to the Rugby World Cup.”
Mensah reiterated Rugby Africa’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe rugby through new leadership structures, improved preparation, and the dedication of players and staff. He also emphasised the importance of continued investment in the sport and the potential to host more continental tournaments in Zimbabwe.
The meeting further highlighted the role governments can play in supporting rugby beyond infrastructure, including youth development, high-performance structures, and competitive pathways. Also present were Steph Nel, World Rugby Senior High Performance Consultant for Africa, and David Gilbert, former President of Botswana Rugby, former Vice President of Rugby Africa, and current adviser to the President of Rugby Africa.
Zimbabwe’s qualification reflects the determination of both government and rugby stakeholders, as players and supporters unite to restore the nation’s standing on the global rugby stage.
The Rugby World Cup 2027, organised by World Rugby, will be held in Australia, bringing together the best teams worldwide, including South Africa, the only nation to have won the Rugby World Cup four times, highlighting the growth and talent of rugby across Africa.
