The race to the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia officially kicked off this morning at the Mandela National Stadium in Kampala, Uganda, as the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup got underway in spectacular fashion. The high-stakes tournament, which runs until July 19, will determine which African nation secures the continent’s sole ticket to the prestigious global showpiece.
All eight participating nations — hosts Uganda, Kenya, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Algeria, Morocco, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal — arrived at the luxurious Speke Resort Munyonyo earlier this week, where the tournament atmosphere was ignited by passionate words from team captains and coaches ahead of today’s curtain-raiser.
Zimbabwe, the defending champions, launch the tournament with a thrilling encounter against Morocco — who are returning to Africa’s top-tier rugby competition after a seven-year absence. Zimbabwe’s skipper Hilton Mudariki, who led the Sables to victory in Kampala last year, is confident his team can rise to the challenge once again.
“We know the target is on our backs,” Mudariki said. “But we’ve built well over the last 12 months. The focus is on us and executing our plan.”
Morocco captain Adil Achahbar welcomed the opportunity to face the title holders in the opener, calling it “a challenge we are ready for.”
The day continues with Algeria facing Côte d’Ivoire at midday, Namibia taking on Senegal in the afternoon, and culminates in a fiery East African derby between hosts Uganda and arch-rivals Kenya at 4 PM — a matchup expected to attract a roaring home crowd.
Uganda captain Byron Oketayot expressed pride in leading the Cranes on home soil and promised an intense battle: “They [Kenya] always give us a hard time. But we’re ready. The fans will lift us, and we’re going all in.”
Kenya’s George Nyambua acknowledged the rivalry but emphasized preparation. “Our camp in South Africa helped a lot. We’ve come here focused and hungry to qualify.”
Namibia, Africa’s only representative at every Rugby World Cup since 1999, are also in the spotlight, determined to bounce back after a semi-final upset last year against Zimbabwe. Their captain, Prince Gaoseb, believes this could be the year for redemption.
“Preparation has been solid. It’s all about who wants it more on the day,” Gaoseb said. Namibia’s journey starts today against a spirited Senegal side, led by Demba Kane, who said his team relishes testing themselves against Africa’s rugby elite.
The tournament is structured as a knockout competition, with the winner not only earning a place at the 2027 Rugby World Cup but also promotion to the second division of the Nations Cup. With qualification across all continents set to wrap up this year — a first in Rugby World Cup history — seeding for the final draw will be based on updated global rankings.
All matches will be played at Mandela National Stadium and broadcast live on NBS Sport and streamed worldwide on RugbyPass TV and Rugby Africa’s Facebook page. Tickets are available locally through MTN MoMo platforms, with both VIP and general admission options.
Matchday 1 fixtures (July 8, 2025)
10:00 – Zimbabwe vs Morocco
12:00 – Algeria vs Côte d’Ivoire
14:00 – Namibia vs Senegal
16:00 – Kenya vs Uganda
