Excitement builds for 2024 Women’s 7s Rugby Tournament in Accra-Ghana

The stage is set for the much-anticipated 2024 Women’s 7s Rugby Tournament, kicking off this weekend at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium in Accra. Starting from 9:00 AM on Saturday, November 9, 2024, the tournament will run through to Sunday, November 10, 2024 bringing together some of the finest female rugby athletes from across the African Continent. With the pivotal role of Africa Rugby President, Herbert Mensah, book runners of the tournament, this prestigious competition follows an official opening ceremony held on Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Alisa Hotel, Accra-Ghana where fans, players, and dignitaries gathered to celebrate the beginning of this exciting sporting event.

The opening match will commence with Zambia against Senegal at 9:00 local Ghana time (GMT) on Saturday, November 9 at the Rugby Stadium, University of Ghana.

Pool A: South Africa, Tunisia, Zimbabwe, Burkina Faso

Pool B: Kenya, Madagascar, Ghana, Mauritius

Pool C: Uganda, Zambia, Senegal, Côte D’Ivoire

Match Day 1: Saturday 9 November 2024 (Local GhanaTime) (GMT)

Fixtures

• Game 1: Zambia vs Senegal (9:00)
• Game 2: Uganda vs Cote d’Ivoire (9:22)
• Game 3: Ghana vs Madagascar (9:44)
• Game 4: Kenya vs Mauritius (10:06)
• Game 5: Tunisia vs Zimbabwe (10:28)
• Game 6: South Africa vs Burkina Faso (10:50)
• Game 7: Zambia vs Côte d’Ivoire (11:44)
• Game 8: Uganda vs Senegal (12:06)
• Game 9: Madagascar vs Mauritius (12:28)
• Game 10: Kenya vs Ghana (12:50)
• Game 11: Tunisia vs Burkina Faso (13:12)
• Game 12: South Africa vs Zimbabwe (13:34)
• Game 13: Senegal vs Cote d’Ivoire (14:50)
• Game 14: Uganda vs Zambia (15:12)
• Game 15: Kenya vs Madagascar (15:34)
• Game 16: Zimbabwe vs Burkina Faso (15:56)
• Game 17: South Africa vs Tunisia (16:18)
• Game 18: Ghana vs Mauritius (16:40)

This year’s tournament promises to showcase high levels of skill, speed, and strategy as women’s rugby continues to grow in popularity across Africa. Teams from various nations will compete in the thrilling 7-a-side format, a fast-paced variation of the sport that requires quick thinking, agility, and teamwork. With rugby’s rise in popularity in the region, the event in the Ghana’s premier University Rugby Stadium in Accra, is expected to attract large crowds of rugby fans, including enthusiastic local supporters, as well as visitors from around the world.

Historic tournament in Ghana’s Rugby landscape

The University of Ghana Rugby Stadium, located in the heart of Ghana’s premier University, is ready to host this landmark event. The stadium is known for its state-of-the-art facilities and has become a key venue for rugby events in the country. This year’s Women’s 7s tournament holds special significance as Ghana continues to develop its rugby programmes, with increasing support from both the government and private entities.

For Ghana, hosting this tournament is an opportunity to solidify its place as a growing hub for rugby in West Africa and beyond. The country’s commitment to nurturing female athletes is evident, with increased investment in grassroots rugby and a focus on promoting women in sport.

What to expect: fast-paced action and skillful play

The competition will see teams from across Africa, going head-to-head for the coveted title. Known for its rapid and intense format, the Women’s 7s game will be testing the players’ endurance and precision. As the teams battle it out on the field, fans can expect thrilling moments, fierce tackles, creative tries, and high-speed sprints.

While the on-field action will certainly be the highlight, off-field, the tournament will offer plenty of opportunities to celebrate women in sport, with many networking events and opportunities for fans to engage with athletes and officials.

An international gathering in the heart of Accra

The tournament will not only bring world-class rugby to Accra but also help position Ghana as a key destination for international sports tourism. The vibrant city, known for its rich cultural heritage, offers visitors an incredible blend of tradition and modernity, with a bustling arts scene, incredible food, and warm hospitality.

Fans traveling to Accra for the event will get the chance to experience all that Ghana has to offer, from historic sites to beautiful beaches and lively markets. The Women’s 7s Rugby Tournament will no doubt enhance the country’s profile on the global sports stage.

Opening ceremony held at Alisa Hotel

Before the matches begin, the official opening ceremony on Friday, November 8, 2024 was held at the Alisa Hotel to set the tone for the weekend’s events. The ceremony featured key rugby figures, dignitaries, including officials from the Rugby Africa Federation, as well as performances celebrating the spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

With an atmosphere charged with excitement and anticipation, the opening ceremony will kick off what promises to be an unforgettable weekend for women’s rugby in Africa.

Looking ahead: The future of Women’s Rugby in Africa

As rugby continues to gain momentum on the continent, tournaments like the 2024 Women’s 7s Rugby Tournament in Accra plays a pivotal role in fostering talent, building fanbases, and empowering women athletes. This year’s tournament is a stepping stone for greater participation and recognition of women in rugby, helping to create pathways for future generations of players, coaches, and officials.

As the first whistle blows on Saturday, November 9 at exactly 9am, the world will be watching as these remarkable athletes take to the field. With action-packed matches, enthusiastic crowds, and a celebration of the power of sport, the 2024 Women’s 7s Rugby Tournament is set to be a monumental event for both rugby fans and the wider African sporting community.

Don’t miss a moment of the action—join in the excitement at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium this weekend!