THE warm smiles shared between Fijiana captain Kolora Lomani and Springbok Women skipper Libbe Janse van Rensburg at the Fiji Museum in Suva yesterday will soon give way to fierce rivalry when they face off this Saturday at the HFC Bank National Stadium in Suva.
Standing alongside the newly unveiled Ubuntu-Bula Trophy, the two captains officially launched what promises to become a lasting emblem of the burgeoning rivalry between Fiji and South Africa in women’s rugby.
For the first time, the Fijiana XV and the Springbok Women will contest a trophy crafted exclusively for a Test, adding fresh significance to Saturday’s showdown at the HFC Bank National Stadium.
More than just silverware, the Ubuntu-Bula Trophy symbolises the shared values of two proud rugby nations.
Inspired by the South African philosophy of Ubuntu—”I am because we are”—it represents unity, compassion, teamwork, respect, fair play, and humility.
Paired with Fiji’s beloved greeting, Bula, which wishes life, health, and happiness, the trophy celebrates the friendship between the two countries while honouring the fierce yet respectful battles on the pitch.
Lomani hailed the unveiling as a historic moment for Fijian rugby.
“We hadn’t expected a trophy, so seeing it today was truly special—not just for the women’s team but for all of Fiji,” she said.
“We haven’t played South Africa in a long time, so this trophy adds an exciting new chapter and inspires young talents aiming to wear the national colours.”
Janse van Rensburg echoed the enthusiasm, calling the trophy a highlight of her day and a testament to the rising profile of women’s rugby in both nations.
When the final whistle sounds at the national stadium this Saturday, history will be made as one nation becomes the inaugural holder of the Ubuntu-Bula Trophy, while a new and meaningful chapter is added to one of women’s rugby’s emerging international rivalries.
