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Ghana has taken another bold step in advancing women’s rugby with the official launch of Rugby Rising Play at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium on Friday, September 12, 2025.
The initiative makes Ghana only the second African country to roll out this World Rugby-backed programme.
Opening a Pathway for Girls in Rugby
Rugby Rising Play is designed as a structured, 10-session pathway for teenage girls with no prior rugby experience.
It introduces them to the sport in a safe and supportive environment, helping them build confidence, embrace teamwork, and develop the skills needed to progress to Tier 1 rugby.
Described as more than just a project, the launch was celebrated as a movement—one aimed at empowering girls, breaking social barriers, and shaping the future of women’s rugby across Africa.
Around 30 young girls from 12 schools showcased the sport during the ceremony.
Calls for Investment in the Next Generation
Special Guest of Honour, Madam Veronica Commey, Deputy Director (Technical) of the National Sports Authority, hailed the initiative as “a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to transform the landscape of girls’ participation in sport in Ghana.”
She stressed the importance of supporting young girls, not only in rugby but in all sports, saying:
“When we invest in girls, we invest in the future. From grassroots to greatness, let us rise together through sport.”
Her remarks underscored the programme’s wider mission to nurture female athletes, coaches, administrators, and leaders for Ghana’s sporting future.
Celebrating Rugby’s Growth in Ghana
Former GRFU President, Mrs. Gifty Anna Myers, the first woman to lead the union, reflected on her early efforts to introduce rugby in Ghana back in 2003—a move initially met with doubt.
She expressed delight at seeing the sport’s growth, urging young girls to take rugby seriously and seize the opportunities the game now offers.
She also highlighted Ghana’s milestone of hosting the first CAR North-West Africa Women’s 7s Tournament in Accra, which drew participation from Morocco, Tunisia, and other nations.
Guidance and Caution for Young Athletes
President of Women in Sports, Mrs. Joyce Mahama, encouraged girls to remain committed to their sporting journey while issuing a word of caution:
“Do not see sport merely as a chance to travel. Desperation could expose you to exploitation.”
She urged participants to stay focused, avoid dropping out, and bring their peers along to help rugby grow.
Mrs. Mahama praised the GRFU’s partnership with World Rugby, noting how Ghanaian girls are already making a mark internationally.
A Long-Term Vision for Women’s Rugby
Ms. Rafatu Inusah, President of the Ghana Rugby Football Union, outlined the bigger picture. She spoke of a future where today’s players evolve into coaches, referees, administrators, and leaders within the sport.
She revealed that the project will also roll out teacher and volunteer training, safeguarding workshops, community sessions, regional festivals, and a national celebration of rugby for girls.
Closing her address, she offered an inspiring message directly to the participants:
“To the girls who will soon take to the field: this program is for you. We believe in your potential, and we are committed to giving you every opportunity to rise, shine, and lead safely through rugby.”
About Rugby Rising Play
Rugby Rising Play is part of World Rugby’s global initiative, Impact Beyond 2025, launched last month. The programme leverages the momentum of the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in England to drive lasting change worldwide.
Through its three core pillars and nine strategic initiatives, Impact Beyond 2025 aims to inspire more women and girls to embrace rugby, not only as players but also as coaches, referees, and administrators.
In Ghana, Rugby Rising Play stands as both a challenge and an opportunity: to nurture the next generation of women who will carry the sport forward, building a legacy that stretches from grassroots fields to the global stage.
Source GRFU Communication
