There’s a renewed sense of pride and excitement in the Northern Cape as Upington Rugby Club officially unveiled its brand-new playing kit for the 2026/27 rugby season — and Pangolin Africa is proud to stand alongside the club as an official sponsor.

Steeped in history and community spirit, Upington Rugby Club has long been one of the region’s most respected rugby institutions. Founded more than a century ago, the club has produced talented players and built a passionate local following over generations.

The newly released kit blends modern rugby styling with the club’s traditional identity, while also carrying an important conservation message. Prominently featured on the shorts is the Pangolin Africa name and message — helping bring awareness to one of the world’s most threatened and misunderstood mammals: the pangolin.

At Pangolin Africa, we believe conservation awareness can happen anywhere — in classrooms, online, in tourism, and even on the rugby field. Partnering with local sports teams creates meaningful opportunities to start conversations and introduce new audiences to the urgent need for pangolin protection.

Pangolins are currently considered the most trafficked mammals on Earth, threatened by illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss. Through awareness campaigns, education initiatives, rehabilitation support, and public engagement, Pangolin Africa works tirelessly to ensure the survival of Africa’s four pangolin species.

Upington Rugby Club continues to build momentum within Northern Cape rugby circles. Recent reports have highlighted the club’s resurgence and determination to return to the upper levels of South African club rugby competition.

The unveiling of the new jersey signals more than just a fresh look for the season ahead — it represents ambition, community pride, and the power of partnerships that extend beyond sport.

The striking navy-and-white kit reflects the toughness and resilience rugby fans have come to associate with Upington Rugby, while the inclusion of conservation messaging adds another layer of purpose to the team’s identity.

For Pangolin Africa, this partnership is about more than logos on a jersey. It is about connecting conservation to everyday South African life and celebrating organisations that care about making a difference.

Sport has the ability to unite communities, inspire younger generations, and create conversations that matter. If even one rugby supporter learns about pangolins because of this partnership, it is a step in the right direction.

We wish the players, coaches, supporters, and everyone involved with Upington Rugby Club the very best for the upcoming 2026/27 season. We look forward to cheering the team on and continuing to spread awareness for pangolin conservation across South Africa.

Go well, Upington Rugby Club — and thank you for helping us give pangolins a voice.