Spotlighting the work of one of our international partners, Ghana Rugby League, powered by HANetf.
As they continue in their aim to grow the game in Africa, here are the standout statistics for April, followed by some detailed information on specific programmes now underway in the area:
- 18 training & playing sessions
- 483 total male attendance
- 237 total female attendance
- 14 schools
- Three communities
- Three regions
Rugby League Federation Ghana Officially Launches 2025 13s Championship Season
2025 Rugby League Rising Stars Tournament – Ashanti Region
On April 15, 2025, the second edition of the Rugby League Rising Stars Tournament was held at Otumfuo Park in the Ashanti Region to offered an early platform for rugby league exposure and skill development among school children.
The event featured vibrant participation from six schools competing in the Primary Boys, JHS Boys, and JHS Girls divisions. A special curtain-raiser match was also played between Pentecost SHS and Aduman SHS girls’ teams.
Participating schools included Akrofrom, Akrowa, Mowire, Aduman, Kyerekrom, and Aduamoa. Akrofrom triumphed in both the Primary and JHS Boys categories, Mowire D/A JHS secured victory in the JHS Girls division. The tournament drew dignitaries, RLFG officials, and strong community support.
Acknowledgements go to the Afigya Kwabre South and North Districts, SUAME Municipal, Nana Adu Gyamfi Kumanin Barima Kese I, Nyankyerenease Nkosuohene, Ceo of Shamore Herbal Center, Mr. David Akomeah Asokwah, GES District Director for Afigya Kwabre South and GES officials for their support in strengthening rugby league’s foundation in the region.
RLFG & Bees Rugby Charity Host Development Clinic
On April 24, 2025, RLFG and Bees Rugby Charity hosted a grassroots clinic at the University of Ghana Rugby Stadium.
Students from top schools and the Madina Rangers community team participated in the event. Participating schools included PRESEC, Accra Girls, Achimota, WASS, and PRESEC-La. RLFG Coaches led over 100 students through basic rugby league drills and skills training. Bees Rugby Charity donated jerseys, balls, and kits to all teams.
Founder Hamza Diaba Suleman praised the collaborative effort to support youth rugby. RLFG Technical Manager Marshall Nortey affirmed the Federation’s development mission. The clinic strengthened RLFG’s school outreach and community partnerships. Participants left with new gear, enhanced skills and inspired spirits.
RLFG and Regardless Mode Holds First-Ever Rugby League Preseason Boot Camp
On April 12, 2025, RLFG and Regardless mode hosted its first-ever pre-season Boot Camp at Teshie Military Academy.
The session brought together players coaches, from all six championship clubs and members of the community. It was powered by Regardless Mode, RLFG’s fitness and performance partner. Players underwent military-style endurance, agility, and mental toughness drills.
The boot camp dubbed D’stress aimed to improve physical readiness and team cohesion. Regardless Mode’s trainers emphasized discipline, mindset, and fitness routines.
The camp fostered unity, motivation, and a high-performance culture. Participants praised the experience as intense but rewarding. This initiative sets the tone for a competitive 2025 season.
On the growth their projects, Ghanaian Rugby League Development Manager, Jafaru Awudu Mustapha said: “The partnership between Salford Red Devils and the Rugby League Federation Ghana is proving to be a game-changer for the sport’s growth in Ghana.
“Within just a few months, we’ve activated schools, empowered communities, and built momentum across the country. It’s more than a development project — it’s a shared vision that’s inspiring a new generation of leaders, players, coaches, fans and a country.”
“We believe Salford Red Devils have created a blueprint in which many emerging tier nations might adopt to increase participation across their own programmes, and we are incredibly grateful to Paul, the foundation and the club in how their thinking is impacting the legacy of rugby league in Africa. “
Finally, Paul Trainor, the Director of Foundation and Rugby Partnerships, has also said: “It is fantastic to see the growth of the game across Ghana. Jafuru and the team at Rugby League Federation Ghana are not only making a difference on the field through the player and coach development programmes, but are also leading change through their community programmes.
“The hard work, passion and drive from the RLFG team, underpinned by their ambitious vision is inspiring. We are looking forward to seeing our partnership continuing to flourish”
