Online Reporter
Eddie Chikamhi, Zimpapers Sports Hub
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa yesterday welcomed the Zimbabwe men’s rugby team to State House, celebrating their historic qualification for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup and urging sports leaders and corporate stakeholders to rally behind the Sables with greater investment and stronger institutional support.
The Sables’ qualification marks the end of a 36-year wait to return to rugby’s grandest stage. Their upcoming appearance in Australia will be Zimbabwe’s third at the tournament, following their debut in 1987 and a subsequent qualification in 1991.
Having followed the team’s journey closely throughout the qualifying campaign, the President described their achievement as “no mean feat.”
In recognition of their efforts, he presented tokens of appreciation to each player and member of the technical team, and commended their back-to-back African titles in 2024 and 2025, which secured their place among the world’s elite.
“The achievement of our national rugby team must serve as a wellspring of inspiration for our youth, schools and communities. Zimbabwe’s qualification is proof that dreams can be achieved through hard work and discipline,” he said.
He challenged the Zimbabwe Rugby union to use this milestone to grow the sport at all levels.
“Qualification for the World Cup must result in a balanced outcome through both participation abroad and transformation at home.
“The refurbishment of training grounds, building of rugby academies, strengthening of school and work-based rugby programmes, and establishment of high-performance facilities should be prioritised. I also call on the Rugby union leadership to embrace good governance, transparency and responsibility in managing the sport,” said the President.
The ceremony was attended by top Government officials, the newly appointed Zimbabwe Rugby union interim management committee, and corporate partners.
President Mnangagwa praised the Zimbabwe Rugby Trust and business sponsors for their support, and encouraged more companies to get involved.
“Your investment in rugby is not only an investment in sport, but in the spirit and identity of Zimbabwe,” he said.
He reminded the team of the Government’s continued backing, citing the US$100 000 released in July to support preparations for the Rugby Africa Cup, and an additional US$100 000 provided through the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
Sport Minister Anselem Sanyatwe described the Sables’ qualification as a “historic achievement” for Zimbabwe, bringing immense pride to the nation and reaffirming the role of sport in national unity. He added that presidential incentives had fostered a “culture of belief and commitment.”
Sables captain Hilton Mudariki said the players were proud to have repaid the faith shown in them.
“This is a powerful reminder that when the youth of Zimbabwe dedicate themselves to hard work, discipline and unity, their efforts will be recognised at the highest level of our nation,” he said. “Our victory in Uganda was not ours alone — it was for every citizen of this great nation.”
The Men’s Rugby World Cup will run from October 1 to November 13, 2027, and will feature 24 teams for the first time. President Mnangagwa called for thorough preparations to ensure Zimbabwe competes strongly and continues to inspire progress across other sporting disciplines.
