Online Reporter
Brandon Moyo, Sports Reporter
IN the world of rugby, few leave behind a legacy as profound as that of Aaron Jani, the late former Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) president, whose vision and passion for the sport touched countless lives.
Jani, who succumbed to cancer at the age of 55 last Wednesday, is widely regarded as a visionary leader and a driving force behind the growth and success of rugby in Zimbabwe.
Always putting the game and its players at the forefront of his efforts, Jani’s contributions have had an immeasurable impact on the sport and his loss has left a void in the rugby community.
As tributes continue to pour in for the gentle giant, one common theme is clear: Jani was a true patriot of the game, leaving an indelible mark not only in Zimbabwe but across the continent.
Numerous organisations have expressed their condolences to the Jani family and the wider Zimbabwean rugby fraternity.
The Bulawayo Metropolitan Rugby Football Board (BMRFB), through its chairman Carrington Busili, described Jani as a visionary leader passionate about rugby development.
“On behalf of the Bulawayo Metro Rugby Football Board, I would like to extend our deepest and most sincere condolences to the family, friends and loved ones of our dearly departed Mr Aaron Jani, former president of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union.
“Mr Jani’s passing is a huge loss, not only to his family but also to the rugby fraternity, which he served with unwavering dedication and passion. His leadership, guidance and vision played a pivotal role in shaping the sport in Zimbabwe.
“As a province, we have had the privilege of working alongside Mr Jani on various occasions. His love for the sport was contagious, and his wisdom, counsel and support were an inspiration. We remember Mr Jani as a true legend of Zimbabwean rugby, whose legacy will continue to inspire future generations. His impact on the sport will never be forgotten.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace,” said Busili.
The Harare Rugby provincial board also paid tribute to Jani’s enduring legacy.
“Thank you, Mr Jani, for your tireless contributions to rugby. Your selfless efforts have brought the sport back to our community, and your dedication has ensured that rugby remains alive and thriving. Your legacy will be cherished for years to come,” read their statement.
The Sables Trust remarked: “The Sables Trust mourns the loss of Aaron Jani, a Sable who dedicated himself to our team’s future. He fostered pathways for generations of players. His passion will be missed.”
Deputy Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Emily Jesaya, said: “A Sable, leader, pioneer and passionate rugby advocate. Your impact on Zimbabwean and African rugby will be felt for generations, echoing your dedication and commitment.” Rugby Africa offered their tribute: “Aaron was a visionary leader whose passion and influence were fundamental in the growth of rugby in Zimbabwe and across Africa. As a former Sable, he dedicated his life to the game, tirelessly working to develop and strengthen the sport at every level.”
The Uganda Rugby Union also expressed their condolences:
“URU extends its deepest condolences to Rugby Africa, Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU), and the family of Aaron Jani following his passing on 26th February 2025. We offer our prayers for courage to Aaron’s family and friends as they go through this very trying time.”
Kenya Rugby stated: “Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and the entire Zimbabwe Rugby fraternity. Mr Jani was a visionary leader, a passionate advocate for rugby and a cherished friend of Rugby Kenya. His unwavering commitment to camaraderie and growth will be deeply missed.”
The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) of Zimbabwe also expressed their sorrow: “The Sports and Recreation Commission Board, management and staff extend their heartfelt and sincere condolences to the family of the late Mr Aaron Jani, Mrs Jani and the Zimbabwe Rugby Union on the passing of Mr Jani on Wednesday 26 February 2025.
“Aaron Jani was a former national rugby team player and a trailblazer in Zimbabwean rugby. Aaron was amongst the pioneering black players who made a significant impact in the Zimbabwe national rugby team, The Sables, during the 1990s and the Old Miltonians Rugby Club where he spent his entire club career.
“Aaron was an astute sportsman and administrator who successfully served two terms as the ZRU president from 2017. In 2019, he was elected to the Rugby Africa Executive Committee and in 2023, he was appointed Treasurer of Rugby Africa, further cementing his legacy as a key figure in African rugby. Mr Jani’s dedication, commitment and contribution to the sport will be deeply missed.”
From the tributes pouring in from across the continent, it is clear that Jani’s commitment to the sport was unwavering.
His ability to inspire and lead with both heart and mind earned him the admiration of all who knew him.
Though he is gone, his impact continues to echo throughout the rugby community, a testament to the profound mark he left on the game he loved.
Jani’s tenure as ZRU president followed a vote of no confidence in the executive led by Nyararai Sibanda.
He was later deposed by the current president, Losson Mtongwiza, in a closely contested election in May of last year.
In 2019, Jani was elected to the Rugby Africa Executive Committee, and in 2023, he was appointed treasurer of the continental rugby governing body. — @brandon_malvin
