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Salford Red Devils Make History with First Rugby League Development Manager in Africa
The Salford Red Devils are proud to announce the appointment of Jafaru Mustapha as the first-ever Salford Red Devils Ghana Rugby League Development Manager, starting July 1.
In October 2021, the Salford Red Devils, in partnership with the Rugby League Federation Ghana (RLFG), embarked on a mission to promote rugby league in Ghana and establish Salford as a household name in West Africa. Two and a half years later, this vision is closer to reality as the Red Devils take an unprecedented step in professional rugby league.
Jafaru Mustapha, a prominent figure in Ghanaian rugby league, has been instrumental in the sport's growth across Ghana. Since enrolling in the first rugby league match officials and coaching course in Accra in 2012, Jafaru has progressed to General Manager of the RLFG, National Team Manager, and lead on the Middle East Africa Championships. His work with the RLFG has involved extensive engagement with schools, clubs, and communities throughout Ghana. In his new role, Jafaru will focus on promoting the Salford Red Devils brand across Ghana and discovering new talent in Accra and beyond.
Paul King, Managing Director of the Salford Red Devils, expressed his excitement about the appointment:
“We’ve always envisioned this partnership as a long-term plan with the ultimate goal of seeing Ghanaian players excel at the highest level in rugby league, representing Salford. We understand that countries like Ghana need support, resources, and education to achieve this. We hope the Salford brand will help create and sustain a generation of rugby league enthusiasts in West Africa and beyond.”
Remond Safi, MEA & Americas Regional Director, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
“The Red Devils are trailblazers among professional clubs in Africa, supporting and developing the game while promoting best practices. For rugby league to thrive in developing nations like Ghana, we need partnerships like this to broaden our reach and make the sport accessible internationally.”
Jafaru Mustapha expressed his enthusiasm for the role:
“I am thrilled to work with the local community in Ghana, inspiring young athletes and fostering a love for rugby league. My aim is to teach not only the skills and strategies of the game but also the values of teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. I hope to make a lasting impact and help develop future rugby league stars in Ghana who may eventually wear the Red Devils badge.”
Madame Storey, President of the Rugby League Federation Ghana, also highlighted the significance of Jafaru’s appointment:
“We’ve long known that having a dedicated rugby league staff member in Ghana will help the sport flourish here and give our young players a chance to shine on a larger stage. We thank Salford for their commitment to our community and support for the RLFG. We look forward to the day a Ghanaian national wears the Salford jersey, symbolizing our hard work under the Red Devils banner.”
Jafaru’s first task will involve extensive coaching within local schools and mapping a performance pathway for juniors, youth, and adults. Regular updates on his progress will be shared on social media.
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