Zimbabwe president backs Sables’ World Cup preparations

Zimbabwe’s preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup received a boost after President Emmerson Mnangagwa met with Rugby Africa president Herbert Mensah at State House in Harare to discuss the country’s return to the global showpiece.

The meeting focused on strengthening cooperation between the Zimbabwean government, the Zimbabwe Rugby Union and Rugby Africa as the nation prepares for its first Rugby World Cup appearance in 34 years.

Zimbabwe secured qualification for the tournament after winning the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup in Kampala, confirming the Zimbabwe Sables’ return to the world stage. Their triumph made them the only African nation, apart from reigning champions South Africa, to qualify through the regional competition.

The discussions highlighted the importance of strong partnerships between governments, sports ministries and continental sporting bodies to ensure African teams have the necessary structures, resources and preparation to compete at the highest level.

Mensah praised the Zimbabwean government’s commitment to supporting the national team and the development of rugby in the country.

He said the meeting demonstrated how much the government values the Zimbabwe Sables and the future of rugby in Zimbabwe, adding that strong leadership support can play a major role in the team’s progress.

Mensah also emphasised that the team’s return to the Rugby World Cup after more than three decades is a proud moment for the nation and reflects the dedication of the players, administrators and supporters who have worked to rebuild the sport.

He reiterated Rugby Africa’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe rugby as it continues to strengthen its leadership structures and improve preparation ahead of the global tournament.

The Rugby Africa president also highlighted the potential for Zimbabwe to host more continental rugby competitions in the future, noting the positive role government support can play in growing the sport and creating opportunities for players.

The meeting further underscored the role governments can play in developing rugby beyond infrastructure by investing in youth programmes, high-performance systems and competitive pathways.

Also in attendance were World Rugby senior high-performance consultant for Africa Steph Nel and David Gilbert, a former president of Botswana Rugby and former vice-president of Rugby Africa, who currently serves as an adviser to the Rugby Africa president.

Zimbabwe’s qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup represents a significant milestone for the country’s rugby community, with players and supporters united in their efforts to restore the nation’s place in international rugby.

The Rugby World Cup 2027 will be hosted in Australia and will bring together the world’s leading rugby nations. South Africa, the only country to have won the tournament four times, will once again represent Africa alongside Zimbabwe, highlighting the continued growth and competitiveness of rugby across the continent.