Ghana unveils West Africa's first international standard Rugby Stadium. 2023 AFRICAN GAMES

In a landmark development for the sport, Ghana has proudly unveiled the Rugby Stadium for the 2023 African Games, which are being held in Ghana until 23 March. Located at the University of Ghana, the Rugby Stadium promises to be a cornerstone for hosting international rugby competitions.

Ghana has now the first international standard rugby stadium in West Africa. Built in accordance with World Rugby guidelines and regulations, the state-of-the-art facility is set to raise the profile of rugby across the African continent. It will be know as University of Ghana Stadium.

In the past, Rugby Africa, the continental governing body for rugby across Africa, has faced challenges in securing suitable venues for international rugby events. The opening of Rugby Stadium also represents a bold step in supporting rugby in Africa. Beyond its role as a venue for international competitions, it will be primarily be used by the Ghana Rugby Federation. 

Since 2021, stakeholders from various sectors have come together to make this vision for West Africa a reality. With the strong support from government officials, the Ghanaian community and the Ghana Rugby Federation, the project has been successfully completed in time for the 2024 African Games. After three years of meticulous planning and construction, the stadium now stands as a testament to Ghana and Rugby Africa's commitment to improving rugby infrastructure and development on the continent. 

"We are immensely proud of the inauguration of the Rugby Stadium, as it represents a monumental milestone for rugby across Africa. This state-of-the-art facility not only raises the standard of rugby infrastructure in the region, but also symbolises our collective commitment to the growth and development of the sport," said Herbert Mensah, President of Rugby Africa.

The University of Ghana Rugby Stadium, a modern and functional venue. 2023 AFRICAN GAMES
The University of Ghana Rugby Stadium, a modern and functional venue. 2023 AFRICAN GAMES

"Ultimately, it allows us to create an opportunity for upward mobility within our competition structures. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone involved for their unwavering support and commitment. Together, we are shaping the future of rugby in Africa," he added. 

The opening of the Rugby Stadium has immense potential to be a catalyst for grassroots participation and talent development across the West African sporting landscape. The stadium will become a hub for rugby enthusiasts. Through outreach programmes, training initiatives and community events, it aims to inspire the next generation of rugby players and foster a culture of sports development. 

Rugby Africa is the governing body of rugby in Africa and one of the regional unions under World Rugby. It unites all African countries that play rugby union, rugby sevens, and women's rugby. It also organises various competitions, including the Rugby World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Sevens, an Olympic qualifier.

With 39 member unions, Rugby Africa is dedicated to the promotion and development of rugby across the continent. World Rugby highlighted Ghana, Nigeria and Zambia as three of the six emerging nations experiencing strong growth in rugby.