Aaron Jani Biography | Death | Career as a Rugby Player | Career as Zimbabwe Rugby Union President
This is the biography of Aaron Jani, a Zimbabwean rugby administrator and former national team player. He played for the Zimbabwe Sables before transitioning into administration, where he served as President of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) and Treasurer of Rugby Africa. Jani passed away in February 2025 at the age of 55.
Career as a Rugby Player
Jani represented the Zimbabwe Sables from 1991 to 1997 before retiring from professional play and moving into rugby administration.
Also read: Herbert Maruwa Biography | Coaching Qualifications | Coaching Career and Clubs Coached
Career as an Administrator
Jani served as President of the Zimbabwe Rugby Union (ZRU) for two terms. He initially took over from Nyararai Sibanda before being elected for a full term. In addition to his role at ZRU, he also served as Treasurer of Rugby Africa and chaired the Rugby Academy Sub-Committee.
In March 2023, Jani was elected Treasurer of Rugby Africa, further cementing his leadership role in regional rugby. Two years prior, he was appointed to the African Women Rugby Advisory Board.
Zimbabwe Rugby Union
During Jani’s tenure:
- The Junior Sables won the Barthes Trophy twice, in 2022 and 2023.
- The Zimbabwe Schools Rugby Festival, which had been inactive for three years, was revived in 2024 with funding from Dr. Kuda Mutendi of Mwana Group.
However, Jani’s tenure also faced financial difficulties:
- The ZRU struggled with resources, leading to challenges in funding players’ travel for national duty.
- Teams were required to return tracksuits after matchdays due to funding constraints.
- Parents had to cover expenses for their children representing the national team.
In May 2024, Jani lost his position as ZRU President in a closely contested election to Losson Mtongwiza.
Death
Aaron Jani passed away on February 26, 2025, following a battle with colon cancer.
