Pulse Sports Rugby Star of the Week: South Africa's Congolese-Born Newbie  Vincent Tshituka

Vincent Tshituka Photo || Imago

Pulse Sports Rugby Star of the Week: South Africa's Congolese-Born Newbie Vincent Tshituka

Mark Kinyanjui 21:55 - 01.07.2025

Tshituka, who was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, impressed in the 54-7 victory over the Barbarians in Cape Town last Saturday.

As the rugby world shifts its gaze toward Pretoria this week, Africa has a new son to rally behind: Vincent Tshituka, the Congolese-born powerhouse set to make his Test debut for the Springboks against Italy.

For most fans across Kenya and the East African rugby community, Tshituka’s call-up might feel distant — another Southern African talent entering the Bok machine. 

But make no mistake: his journey speaks to every African aspiring to rise through the ranks of global sport. It’s the story of resilience, mobility, and African excellence on a world stage.

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Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo and raised in South Africa after his family fled political instability, Tshituka’s climb has been anything but easy. From dusty township pitches to Super Rugby, he’s grafted his way into rugby’s elite — not through hype, but hard yards.

Last week, in what was meant to be a “low-stakes” Barbarians match, he flipped the script. Two tries. Countless carries.

 Bone-rattling tackles. It was enough to catch the eye of none other than Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, who promptly gave Tshituka the nod to debut in the green and gold — in a fully capped Test.

And indeed, Africa is ready too — ready to see more of its sons break traditional sporting ceilings. 

Tshituka becomes a symbol of what is possible when the continent’s raw rugby talent is nurtured and given pathways. For young players in Nairobi, Kampala, Kigali — this isn’t just another Springbok debut; it’s a blueprint.

Back home in Kenya, rugby continues to fight for infrastructure, funding, and recognition. But inspiration matters. And Vincent Tshituka — a Francophone-African kid who carved his name into one of rugby’s most elite squads — is the kind of inspiration that can lift a region.

This Saturday, as he steps onto the turf at Loftus Versfeld, Tshituka won’t just be representing South Africa. He’ll be carrying the dreams of a continent still waking up to its boundless rugby potential.

And that alone makes him our African Rugby Star of the Week.