Benin has achieved a historic milestone after being officially admitted as an Associate Member of World Rugby during the 17th General Assembly held in London on September 23.
The approval by the World Rugby Council increases the number of full and associate members of the global governing body to 134, meaning more than two-thirds of United Nations-recognized countries now have a presence in the sport.
For Benin, the achievement represents both recognition and opportunity. Hervé Assogba, President of the Benin Rugby Federation, hailed the development as a proud moment for the nation.
“On behalf of the Government of Benin, we express our deep gratitude to World Rugby for the trust placed in our country through this appointment. This recognition is not only an honor, but also an encouragement to continue our efforts for the development of rugby in Benin. It reflects our nation’s desire to fully invest in the promotion of this sport and its universal values,” Assogba said.
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World Rugby Chair Dr. Brett Robinson congratulated Benin, describing the union’s admission as a sign of the game’s global growth.
“I am delighted that Benin has joined the World Rugby family as an associate member. Rugby is a sport which continues to grow around the world, reaching more and more places, players and fans. I look forward to watching Benin’s journey in our sport and seeing how far they can go,” Robinson said.
Rugby Africa President Herbert Mensah also welcomed Benin’s addition, noting the significance of their efforts.
“I couldn’t be happier for the Benin union. World Rugby Council have voted, the regions have voted, they’ve done the hard work to get here. It is unions like Benin who are the future of our sport and today is a great day for all involved,” Mensah remarked.
The Benin union, which is a member of Rugby Africa, will now benefit from greater support and resources to grow the game domestically.
The Government of Benin has identified sport as one of its key drivers of economic and social development.
Benin’s Associate Membership of World Rugby will unlock better support to growth rugby in Benin and to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s broader development vision through the power of sport.
