Online Reporter
Zimpapers Sports Hub
CONTINENTAL body Rugby Africa yesterday led tributes that poured in for Aaron Jani, describing the legendary ex-Sables international and former Zimbabwe Rugby Union president as a visionary leader, whose passion and influence were fundamental in the growth of the sport.
Jani who was both a domestic and African rugby leader died in Harare on Wednesday after a long battle with cancer.
He was 55.
Jani is expected to be buried at his rural home in Zvimba on Sunday.
At the time of his death, he was Rugby Africa’s treasurer.
“It is with deep sadness that Rugby Africa announces the passing of our beloved colleague Aaron Jani, former President of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) and Rugby Africa Treasurer, who passed away on Wednesday after a courageous battle against a long-term illness,” read part of the statement from Rugby Africa.
“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.”
Rugby Africa president Herbert Mensah also added his voice.
“Aaron was an exceptional individual—thoughtful, intelligent, and deeply committed to rugby. Even in the face of illness, he demonstrated remarkable strength and resilience.
“He often spoke with immense pride and admiration for his family.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to his loved ones, particularly his wife, during this incredibly difficult time.
Mensah’s sentiments were echoed by Kenya Rugby.
“Our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the entire Zimbabwe Rugby fraternity,” Kenya Rugby chief executive officer Thomas Odundo said.
“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,” said Odundo.
Back home, the Sports and Recreation Commission also extended their condolences to the Jani family and the country’s sporting fraternity.
“The Sports and Recreation Commission board, management and staff extent theirs heartfelt and sincere condolences to the Jani family and Zimbabwe Rugby Union following the passing on of Aaron Jani on Wednesday.
“Aaron was a former national rugby team player and a trailblazer in Zimbabwean rugby,’’ the SRC said.
“He was amongst the pioneering black players who made 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.
“He was also an astute sportsman and administrator who successfully served two terms as the Zimbabwe Rugby Union president.”
“His leadership and vision helped shape the future of rugby in Zimbabwe.
“In 2019, Aaron Jani 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.
“Jani’s dedication, commitment and contribution to sport will be deeply missed,”
Former ZRU executive committee member Abigail Mnikwa, described Jani as a “true gentleman who was a true supporter and ally to women’s rugby in Zimbabwe.
“Aaron is someone I have known for a very long time and, in that time, the thing that stood out about him was that he was a true gentleman,” Mnikwa said.
“We first started working together back in 2006 when he was appointed as the Zimbabwe Under-19 (now Under-20) chairperson, and I later served under his presidency as a board member.
“He was soft spoken and never confrontational.
“Above all else, he had women’s rugby at heart as exemplified by his appointment on the African Women Rugby Advisory board.
“He was a huge supporter of the women’s game during my time and would sometimes dip into his own pockets to help the teams.
“Both the women’s game and the sport as a whole are lesser because of his passing,” she said
Sables captain Hilton Mudariki said he had been devasted to learn of Jani’s passing.
“It was really devastating news hearing about the passing away of Mr. Jani.
“He truly was a great man who did so much for Zimbabwe rugby, both as a player and as an administrator,” said Mudariki.
“One need only take a look at where Zimbabwe rugby was when he took over and where he left to see what kind of an impact he made.
“The amount of work he put in to take the sport to where it needs to be is something to marvel at, and we are truly grateful for everything he did for us and we will truly miss him,” Mudariki said.
Ex- Zimbabwe player and coach Bright Chivandire, who was one of Jani’s close friends said the country had lost an iconic rugby figure.
“I struggle to express how I feel right now, I’m broken.
“I have lost a close friend and the game that we both loved has lost a legendary administrator,” Chivandire said.
During his playing career, Jani featured alongside the likes Honeywell Nguruve, Brian Beattie and another former Sables coach Brandon Dawson.
Mourners are currently gathered at Number 14 Glenwood Park, 304 Enterprise Road, Glen Lorne.
