The 2025 International Seminar on African Rugby Development has commenced in Morocco, bringing together 23 African nations to discuss the growth and development of rugby on the continent. The seminar, themed “The Development of Rugby through the School, University, and Olympic Pathways,” aims to strengthen talent pipelines, foster growth at all levels, and expand Africa’s rugby footprint globally.
President of Rugby Africa, Herbert Mensah, emphasized the importance of investing in the next generation, stating that “children are the investment in our future.” He also highlighted the need for Africa to take ownership of its development, saying “no one is coming to save Africa, Africa must save itself.”
The seminar features prominent speakers, including Noureddine Maktalfrom of the African School Sport Federation, Mostafa Jelti, Rugby Africa’s Regional Development Officer, and Coralie Van Den Berg, World Rugby Regional Partnerships Manager for Africa. The event also includes plenary lectures, workshops, and federation presentations on topics such as School and University Rugby, Olympic Rugby, Safeguarding, and Sustainable Development.
This year’s seminar comes ahead of several major international events, including the African School Games, African Youth Games, Youth Olympic Games, World University Rugby Sevens Championship, and African Beach Games. World Rugby has highlighted Ghana, Nigeria, and Zambia as three emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
