In a landmark step for rugby’s global inclusion efforts, Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah reaffirmed his commitment to empowering women in rugby during the “Journey of Women’s Representation in Rugby Leadership” panel at the 17th World Rugby General Assembly held in London, United Kingdom.
Driving Change Through Rugby Gender Equality Initiatives
Ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 Finals, Mensah emphasized that achieving true excellence in rugby is impossible without full gender representation. He stated, “How can you ignore talent because of gender? Neglecting women means losing 50% of the world’s talent and opportunity.” His remarks underscored Africa’s growing influence
in rugby’s global inclusion efforts and the urgent need for gender-balanced leadership across the sport.
Global Support for Empowering Women in Rugby
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson praised the record-breaking Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England, calling it “joyous, bold, and era-defining.” The event attracted over 81,000 fans to the final between England and Canada — a milestone for women’s sports worldwide.
World Rugby continues advancing female leadership, with women now making up 42% of its Executive Board and 38% of the World Rugby Council. These rugby gender equality initiatives are setting new global standards for inclusion and diversity in governance.
Africa’s Commitment to Inclusive Growth
Mensah reaffirmed Rugby Africa’s pledge to promote women’s representation and empowering women in rugby at every level. Collaborations with global partners like UN Women and national rugby unions are helping expand training, leadership programs, and visibility for female athletes and executives.
The 17th World Rugby General Assembly featured notable voices including Kylie Bates (UN Women), Sol Iglesias (Argentina Rugby Union), and Cathy Wong (FASANOC), all reinforcing rugby’s evolution toward gender parity.
“This beautiful game requires excellence, and we can’t achieve it with only 50% of us,” Mensah concluded, stressing unity and shared purpose for the sport’s future.
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This story was first reported by APO Group on behalf of Rugby Africa. Read the full article here.
