World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson and Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah have visited Zimbabwe as preparations intensify for the Sables’ return to the Rugby World Cup.
The high-level visit formed part of efforts to strengthen rugby in Zimbabwe and support the national team ahead of their first Rugby World Cup appearance in several years.
Robinson and Mensah were part of a delegation that met Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Retired Lieutenant General Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, and Deputy Minister Hon. Emily Jesaya.

Also present were World Rugby Chief of International Federations David Carrigy, David Gilbert, former President of the Botswana Rugby Union and adviser to Mensah, Zimbabwe Rugby’s Interim Management Committee Chair Paddy Zhanda and General Manager Takunda Chifokoyo.
The discussions centred on strengthening Zimbabwean rugby structures and ensuring the Sables are properly prepared for the demands of the global stage.
For Zimbabwe, the return to the Rugby World Cup represents an important moment for the sport and an opportunity to build renewed momentum around the national team.

The presence of senior World Rugby and Rugby Africa officials highlights the importance of collaboration between international and continental rugby bodies and Zimbabwean authorities as preparations continue.
Mensah’s involvement also reflects Rugby Africa’s commitment to supporting the development and competitiveness of African rugby nations, while Robinson’s participation underlines World Rugby’s engagement with Zimbabwe ahead of the tournament.

The Sables will now look to turn their World Cup qualification into a strong campaign, with preparations focused on building a team capable of competing against the world’s best.
The visit provided a strong message of unity, with Zimbabwean rugby leadership, Rugby Africa and World Rugby working together to ensure the Sables are ready for their return to the Rugby World Cup.

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of The Accra Daily Mail, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
