David GOMBE
Nile Special, Uganda’s most iconic beer and a product of Nile Breweries Limited, has today officially reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to Ugandan rugby as the Official Beer Partner of the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup (RAC).
The announcement was made at a
high-energy press event hosted at Next Media Park in Naguru, Kampala, in collaboration with the Uganda Rugby Union (URU), MTN MoMo, and RockBoom.
The Rugby Africa Cup 2025, set to run from July 8 to July 20, 2025, at the Mandela National Stadium Namboole, is more than a sporting spectacle. It is a rallying moment for national pride, unity, and global ambition and for Nile Special, it is a natural extension of a long-standing passion for Ugandan sport.
Speaking at the launch, Adu Rando, Managing Director of Nile Breweries Limited,emphasized the brand’s deep-rooted belief in Uganda’s rugby journey:
“At Nile Special, we are not just sponsors, we are believers. Rugby embodies the very spirit of our brand: Guts. Grit. Gold. It reflects the strength, resilience, and pride of the Ugandan people. As we gear up to host Africa and chase qualification for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, we are standing proudly behind the Rugby Cranes and beside every fan because this is our moment to reach for gold together.”
The 2025 Rugby Africa Cup, which also doubles as a qualifier for the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, will feature eight of the continent’s finest rugby nations: Zimbabwe (2024 champions), Uganda (hosts), Namibia, Kenya, Algeria, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Morocco (who qualified via the 2025 North Africa Repechage).
In partnership with URU, MTN MoMo, and RockBoom, Nile Special is committed to delivering a world-class fan experience, from nationwide campaign activations to electrifying matchday moments, pre- and post-match fan engagement, and a celebration of Ugandan culture and sport at every turn.
URU President Godwin Kayangwe lauded the role of partners in elevating the game:
“Hosting the Rugby Africa Cup is not just a sporting milestone, it is a national mission. And we are grateful to have committed partners like Nile Special, MTN MoMo, and RockBoom who believe in the potential of Ugandan rugby and our journey to the Rugby World Cup.
“Nile Special has long been synonymous with Ugandan rugby backing everything from the Rugby Premiership, National Sevens Series, Uganda Cup, and the University League, to the prestigious Annual Rugby Dinner. This year, the brand steps forward once again with its signature rallying theme: “Guts. Grit. Gold. | Reach for Gold“This partnership is built on shared values: discipline, unity, and pride, added Adu Rando.
“We’re calling on every Ugandan to raise their voices, raise their passion, and raise their gold Nile Special in support of the Rugby Cranes as they chase history.”
As part of the tournament celebration, Uganda will also proudly host the legendary Webb Ellis Cup, the ultimate symbol of international rugby excellence a historic first for the country and a powerful visual for fans across Uganda.
Ambrose Tashobya, Chairman of the International Local Organising Committee (ILOC) and also NCS Chairman, reaffirmed the broader significance of the tournament:
“This is a statement of who we are as a nation. With partners like Nile Special leading the way, we are focused on delivering an unforgettable tournament that reflects Uganda’s ambition and unity.”
Hon. Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Sports, expressed government commitment:
“Sport unites our people and showcases our spirit to the world. With support from passionate brands like Nile Special, we are confident that the 2025 Rugby Africa Cup will elevate Uganda’s status on the global rugby stage.”
The Rugby Cranes will begin their campaign in a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash against regional rivals Kenya. The winner of the tournament will earn direct qualification to the Rugby World Cup, while the runner-up advances to a repechage pathway, with Uganda also hosting that critical playoff fixture.
