Uganda’s rugby community is in mourning after the passing of one of its most dedicated figures, Herbert Wafula, on Friday morning following an illness.

During his prime, Wafula served as the captain of the national team, the Rugby Cranes, affectionately known as ‘Herbo’ within rugby circles. Upon retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching, taking on roles with the Uganda Rugby Union (URU) as the country manager.

Wafula also lent his coaching expertise to numerous local clubs, including Pirates, Warriors, Kobs, and Rhinos. The URU expressed their sorrow on social media, stating, “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that we mourn the loss of Herbert Wafula, former @RugbyCranes captain, coach, team manager, and URU Country Manager. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

A versatile backline player, Wafula’s most significant achievement occurred in 2002 when he led Uganda to a historic victory in Kenya during the Africa Cup tier 1B tournament. The 31-22 triumph in Nairobi marked Uganda’s ascent to the top tier of world rugby for the first time, culminating in their victory in the 2007 Africa Cup.

Wafula, who had been an integral part of the rugby scene for the past 25 years, contributed to the sport even beyond his playing and coaching days. At the time of his passing, he was a weekly rugby columnist for the government newspaper, The New Vision.

Rest in Peace, Herbert!