Row in Africa over 2023 Rugby World Cup qualifiers in France

African rugby's governing body, Rugby Africa, has been accused of ignoring the interests of the game on the continent following a controversial decision to host its 2023 Rugby World Cup qualifiers in France.

In July eight African teams will compete in a tournament in two French cities, Aix-en-Provence and Marseille, for one automatic ticket to the finals set to be hosted by France in September next year.

This will be the first time in the history of African rugby that its World Cup qualifiers have been held outside continental borders and the decision has been met with discontent in Africa.

One contender, Namibia, have spoken out against the move, saying they are «dissatisfied» with the decision.

«We did request Rugby Africa to revisit their decision,» Namibia rugby president Corrie Mensah said, but «the outcome was to remain with France as host.»

Kenya and Zimbabwe put in bids which the continental body described as «strong», but it decided to award the hosting rights to France.

«Our main goal is to keep growing and progressing and taking our rightful place on the international stage,» Rugby Africa told BBC Sport Africa in a statement.

«In collaboration with our members and partners, Rugby Africa needs to invent new ways and create new opportunities to grow its revenue and redistribute it in African rugby.»

Former Uganda women's international Helen Buteme told BBC Sport Africa that Rugby Africa «doesn't have the interests of African rugby at heart».

«There is no justification whatsoever for taking what is our biggest tournament to a European country,» she added. «Africa needs this tournament while France does not.»

Namibia will be aiming to clinch a seventh consecutive appearance at the global tournament, having made their debut