Morocco, Mauritius and Nigeria will all compete in Casablanca in a Rugby Africa Division 1C competition. 

The winners will be promoted to Division 1B for 2017 and as such will keep their hopes of a place in Japan alive.

Hosts Morocco are due play the first game against Mauritius tomorrow with all matches being played at COC Stadium.

Mauritius will then meet Nigeria in game two on Wednesday (July 13) before Morocco end against the Nigerians on July 16.

Rugby Africa President Abdelaziz Bougja said: "I am delighted that the Morocco Rugby Union will host this tournament and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for their hospitality and cooperation in organising this great event.  

"This is an important milestone for Rugby Africa, as we begin the road to Rugby World Cup 2019, which begins in earnest this weekend in Casablanca. 

"RWC2019 is an opportunity to grow rugby even further and push it into new territories around Africa. 

"We want to inspire people from all over the continent to play and get involved with the game."

A total of 12 teams have already qualified for Japan based on their performances at the last World Cup in England in 2015.

Eight more places are available through regional events, with qualifiers in Oceania already underway.

World Rugby chairman Bill Beaumont said: "With a very special Rugby World Cup 2015 fresh in our memories, we are excited to be launching the African qualification process for Japan 2019. 

"The process gives a clear pathway for unions to make it to the tournament and we know that unforgettable moments will be shared by the players and teams who are beginning their Rugby World Cup journey.

"Rugby World Cup is not just a tournament of 20 teams but in fact it is designed to include all full member unions. 

"I would like to thank Rugby Africa and the Morocco Rugby Union for hosting these matches and for being part of this great tournament.”