The Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG) has achieved a historic milestone by being elevated to Full Member status within the International Rugby League (IRL).
This promotion, approved at the IRL’s Annual General Meeting on December 18, 2025, positions Ghana as the 15th nation worldwide to hold this prestigious ranking and the second in the Middle East Africa region, following South Africa.
It marks Ghana as the first nation to attain full membership under the IRL’s stringent 2019 policy framework, which emphasizes strong governance, financial prudence, operational excellence, self-sufficiency, and well-administered domestic competitions.
Since its inception in 2012 through a collaboration involving sponsors, the British government, and the European Rugby League, the RLFG has rapidly developed a thriving domestic ecosystem.
The federation, formally established in 2014, has cultivated a vibrant rugby league scene centered in Accra and expanding nationwide, featuring established clubs such as the Accra Panthers RLFC, Bulls RLFC, Nungua Tigers, Skolars RLC (named in honor of the founder of London Skolars), Dragons, and UG Titans.
These clubs participate in regular competitions, including annual 9s series, 13-a-side championships, and university inter-hall tournaments, fostering competitive play across men’s, women’s, and youth levels.
A notable highlight in Ghana’s rugby league journey came in 2022 when the national team hosted and competed in the Middle East Africa Championship in Accra, advancing to the final and securing a strong performance that contributed to regional qualification pathways.
The RLFG has also prioritized extensive youth and community development initiatives, partnering with schools, universities, and organizations like the Salford Red Devils to introduce the sport to new generations, promote women’s participation (with the first women’s national team fielded in 2023), and integrate social responsibility programs, such as environmental awareness events and outreach in regions beyond the capital.
This elevation to full membership grants Ghana voting rights at the IRL level, amplifying its influence in decisions that will shape the future direction and growth of rugby league globally.
As RLFG President Juliana Storey noted, this achievement underscores Ghana’s pioneering role on the African continent and sets an inspiring precedent for emerging nations in the sport.
With robust structures in place—including an experienced Board of Trustees, executive directors, staff, and committees—the federation is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory, inspiring further expansion and international success.