The international karate tournament will be held at the indoor sports and entertainment hall of Ecole Notre Dame des Anges in Remera, bringing together children, cadet, juniors, and senior athletes from Rwanda and beyond.
Previously staged in Huye, the championship features both male and female competitors aged six years and above, competing across different age and weight categories.
Young participants will compete in Kata (forms demonstration) and Kumite (sparring) based on age groups, while senior athletes will contest Kumite bouts according to weight divisions, in line with World Karate Federation regulations.
One of the tournament’s distinguishing features is the use of advanced Video Review (VAR) technology in scoring, allowing coaches to challenge refereeing decisions when they believe their athletes were denied deserved points.
The championship is also officiated by international referees and experts drawn from across the African continent.
Dieudonné Mwizerwa, Director of Zanshin Sport Solutions and the tournament organiser, said registration will open in June and run until the end of July 2026.
“This year, all preparations are well in place. We expect top international athletes to participate, and international referees from different African countries will officiate the matches,” he said.
Mwizerwa urged teams to register their athletes early and in large numbers, while also calling on supporters to attend and cheer on the competitors.
He also thanked FERWAKA and Martin Hardware & Twyford Rwanda, the main sponsor of the tournament, for their continued support.
He further encouraged other partners to collaborate with Zanshin in promoting karate development and nurturing young talent.
In the 2025 edition, Flying Eagles Karate Club won the Zanshin Karate Championship for Children, Cadets and Juniors (3rd Edition).
APR Karate-Do claimed the Zanshin Seniors Open Karate Championships (2nd Edition), which brought together senior athletes and was held at Hotel Credo in Huye District.
Participating teams included clubs from Rwanda and Kenya, as well as individual athletes from Gabon and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The “Zanshin Karate Championship 2026” tournament will take place in Kigali from August 7–9. The karate tournament features both junior and senior categories.Dieudonné Mwizerwa, Director of Zanshin Sport Solutions and the tournament organiser, said registration will open in June and run until the end of July 2026.Teams from Kenya were among those that participated in the tournament during its most recent edition in 2025, which was held in Huye.
The results mark a historic milestone for the Rwanda Development Board, as every club carrying the nation’s flagship tourism brand has converged at the penultimate stage of Europe’s most prestigious competition.
The path to the final four was paved with high-stakes drama as the partner clubs navigated through Europe’s elite. Arsenal FC demonstrated a defensive masterclass to eliminate Sporting CP, holding firm for a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium following a slim 1-0 victory in Lisbon to secure back-to-back semifinal appearances.
Meanwhile, Paris Saint-Germain silenced Anfield by overcoming Liverpool FC in a tactical heavyweight clash to continue their pursuit of a maiden Champions League trophy. In an all-Spanish affair, the “Visit Rwanda” newcomer Atlético de Madrid staged a gritty performance to knock out FC Barcelona, proving their mettle under the lights of the Metropolitano.
Finally, in the most explosive tie of the round, FC Bayern Munich dispatched Real Madrid in a 10-goal aggregate thriller, where a 4-3 victory in the second leg cemented the German side’s status as a tournament favourite.
FC Bayern Munich remains a key collaborator of Rwanda through a refined partnership that prioritises football development. This ongoing cooperation focuses on long-term impact, including the FC Bayern Youth Academy in Kigali, coaching exchange programmes, and grassroots initiatives aimed at nurturing Rwandan talent.
President Paul Kagame celebrated the clean sweep on social media, highlighting the synergy between the clubs’ on-field excellence and the nation’s global branding. The President noted that the performances of Atlético de Madrid, Arsenal, and PSG have shown consistency, excellence, and resolve.
He extended specific congratulations to the newest partner, Atlético de Madrid, alongside long-standing collaborators Arsenal and PSG, wishing them success as they head into the home stretch of the tournament.
“Proud to see three Visit Rwanda partners qualifying for the UEFA Champions League semi-finals! The performances of Atlético de Madrid, Arsenal and PSG have shown consistency, excellence and resolve, and we look forward to the games ahead!” President Kagame said in a post on X on Wednesday night.
The upcoming semifinal fixtures will see Paris Saint-Germain face FC Bayern Munich, while Atlético de Madrid takes on Arsenal. The upcoming semifinal fixtures will see Paris Saint-Germain face FC Bayern Munich, while Atlético de Madrid takes on Arsenal FC. These pairings ensure that “Visit Rwanda” will maintain a strong presence on the Champions League stage, with at least one partner club guaranteed a place in the final in Munich.
Arsenal FC demonstrated a defensive masterclass to eliminate Sporting CP, holding firm for a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium following a slim 1-0 victory in Lisbon to secure back-to-back semifinal appearances.Paris Saint-Germain silenced Anfield by overcoming Liverpool FC in a tactical heavyweight clash to continue their pursuit of a maiden Champions League trophy.
The 6’6” centre, born in Mumias in western Kenya, was selected as the 13th overall pick in the first round of the WNBA Draft, placing her among the newest additions to one of the world’s most competitive women’s basketball leagues.
Okot is known for her strong presence in the paint, elite rebounding ability and growing offensive versatility, attributes that have made her one of the most promising frontcourt players in this year’s draft class.
Her journey began in 2020 at Zetech University in Kenya before she moved to the United States to pursue higher-level competition. She later played for Mississippi State University for two seasons before transferring to the University of South Carolina, where her development accelerated.
At South Carolina, Okot averaged 12.8 points and 10.6 rebounds per game while shooting 57.5 per cent from the field, establishing herself as one of the most efficient players in the programme. She was also part of the Gamecocks squad that reached the NCAA Division I Women’s Basketball Championship final, competing at the highest level of U.S. college basketball.
Her selection by the Atlanta Dream marks a major milestone not only for her career but also for Kenyan basketball, as she becomes the first player from the country to enter the WNBA.
The WNBA Draft is an annual event where franchises select top college and international prospects to strengthen their rosters ahead of the season, which runs from May to September. Draft order is determined by the reverse standings of the previous campaign.
Okot will wear jersey number 26 for the Atlanta Dream, with the jersey already available for fans.
She joins a draft class shaped by a new collective bargaining agreement that has raised the salary cap to $7 million per team, significantly improving rookie contracts and overall earnings. First-year players now earn over $270,000 (about Rwf 393 million), while top picks can earn up to $500,000. Okot’s rookie contract at pick 13 is estimated at around $289,133 (Rwf 420 million).
The Atlanta Dream also selected Indya Nivar (28th overall) and Kejia Ran (43rd overall) to strengthen their squad. The additions join a core that includes Allisha Gray, Rhyne Howard, and Angel Reese as the franchise looks to compete with top teams such as the Las Vegas Aces.
President William Ruto has congratulated her, saying her milestone “fills our nation with pride” and serves as inspiration for young Kenyan athletes.
Okot has previously described her rise as surreal, noting her gratitude for how far she has come since starting basketball only six years ago.
The 6’6” centre, born in Mumias in western Kenya, was selected as the 13th overall pick in the first round of the WNBA Draft, placing her among the newest additions to one of the world’s most competitive women’s basketball leagues.
On Sunday, April 12, 2026, FERWAFA officials joined residents of Remera Sector in commemorating the 32nd anniversary of the Genocide against the Tutsi. The event formed part of the nationwide Kwibuka32 remembrance activities.
Following the commemoration, FERWAFA shared a message from national team players, both those playing locally and abroad, reflecting on the importance of remembrance.
Kwizera Jojea, who plays for Rhode Island in the United States, said: “As a player of Rwanda’s national team, we take this moment to remember the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.”
Striker Biramahire Abeddy of Assabah FC in Libya and Bayisenge Emery of Rayon Sports directed their message to the youth, urging them to uphold unity and national values.
“As young people, the more we remember, the more we commit ourselves to preserving unity, peace, and development. We are the future of Rwanda, and it is our responsibility to contribute to building a country free from division.”
Nshuti Innocent, who plays for Al Wafaq Ajdabia in Libya, together with FERWAFA’s Commissioner for Women’s Football, Gicanda Nikita Valverde, stressed that it is the responsibility of every Rwandan to fight against genocide denial and ideology.
FERWAFA President, Shema Ngoga Fabrice, noted that remembrance plays a crucial role in strengthening national unity.
“Remembrance is a shared responsibility among all Rwandans, because a society that does not remember fades away. As sportspeople, we choose to be a pillar of reconciliation and development.”
In the message, which also featured FERWAFA’s Commissioner for Development, Kanamugire Fidèle, participants highlighted that making the right choices in life includes contributing to the continued building of a united Rwanda.
FERWAFA President, Shema Ngoga Fabrice, joined Remera residents to honor victims of Genocide against the Tutsi. FERWAFA President, Shema Ngoga Fabrice, noted that remembrance plays a crucial role in strengthening national unity.Amavubi players have urged the youth to remember as a way to honor victims of Genocide against the Tutsi.
Rwanda, alongside the international community, is currently marking the 32nd commemoration of the Genocide against the Tutsi, during which more than one million people were killed in just 100 days.
Speaking at an event held on April 10, 2026, in remembrance of journalists who were killed during the Genocide, Dr. Bizimana highlighted the critical role played by the media in fueling the violence.
He explained that several high-ranking government officials were actively involved in the leadership of RTLM while still serving in state institutions.
Among them was Donath Hakizimana, then Secretary General of the National Intelligence Service, who was responsible for supplying RTLM with information and recruiting loyal, hardline journalists.
Gaspard Musabyimana, now living in Belgium where he operates Radio Inkingi an outlet that continues to promote genocide ideology was in charge of programming and coordination with intelligence networks.
Also involved was Ferdinand Nahimana, one of the principal ideologues of the Genocide, who authored propaganda encouraging Hutu unity against Tutsis under what was called the “civil self-defense” (Auto-défense civile) campaign.
These individuals, along with others, formed influential committees that recruited skilled and trusted journalists, many drawn from ORINFOR and used them to orchestrate propaganda campaigns that encouraged the killing of Tutsis.
Those recruited included Noheli Hitimana, Joel Hakizimana, Ananiya Nkurunziza, Georges Ruggiu, Valérie Bemeriki, Joseph Gatsikira, and others known for their engaging and persuasive broadcasting style, often centered on music, sports, and general entertainment.
Dr. Bizimana emphasized that Habimana Kantano stood out as one of RTLM’s most influential figures. He cleverly used his popularity as a passionate fan of Rayon Sports to mobilize members of the Interahamwe militia and incite them to commit killings.
He noted:“Kantano was widely recognized as a devoted Rayon Sports supporter. He often wore the club’s attire and carried a drum wherever he went. He was highly popular, and whenever he spoke on RTLM, many young people listened closely because of his influence.”
RTLM broadcasts frequently included explicit hate speech, such as: “Tutsis, you cockroaches, we will kill you.”
RTLM began broadcasting on July 8, 1993, and quickly became popular, particularly among young audiences, due to its modern and engaging programming. The station aired a wide range of music, including Zouk, Rumba, American genres, gospel songs, and more.
Its large audience enabled it to spread hatred and extremist propaganda with alarming ease, significantly contributing to the rapid escalation and widespread nature of the killings during the Genocide.
Ferdinand Nahimana was the Director of RTLM.Habimana Kantano used his association with Rayon Sports to incite Hutu youth to kill Tutsis.
He made the remarks on April 10, 2026, at State House, Nairobi, during the signing of a lease agreement between the Kenya Railways Corporation and Zaria Group for the development of a modern arena and entertainment district under the Nairobi Railway City project.
President Ruto said the agreement marks a turning point in the transformation of Nairobi into a globally competitive capital, driven by structured planning, public-private partnerships, and coordinated urban regeneration.
He noted that the Nairobi Railway City master plan is designed to convert underutilised land in the city centre into a mixed-use district integrating transport, commerce, culture, sports, and public life, with the aim of establishing a vibrant 24-hour economy.
“It is true that this arena should have been built before the one in Kigali, and Ujiri would have wanted that to happen,” Ruto said. “But we thank God that finally we are doing it.”
He added that Nairobi’s slow decision-making processes had previously held back major opportunities for the city.
Ruto further revealed that he personally intervened in negotiations to finalise the agreement, including adjusting financial terms to ensure consensus was reached.
President William Ruto acknowledged that delays in decision-making and fragmentation slowed Kenya’s progress despite early conceptualisation of the project.
The President emphasised that the project reflects a shift toward private-sector-driven development, noting that government alone cannot finance all infrastructure needs.
He added that the Nairobi Railway City project will serve as a model for integrated urban development, supported by broader improvements in infrastructure, including roads, lighting, security systems, and cleanliness within the capital.
Ruto said the arena will not only serve sporting purposes but will also support music, arts, and the wider creative economy, positioning Nairobi as a regional hub for entertainment and international events.
He further said the project will complement other flagship developments such as the Talanta Stadium and the Bomas of Kenya conference facility, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for sports, culture, and business tourism.
The project, which is expected to be completed within 12 months, is projected to create up to 25,000 jobs annually across construction, operations, hospitality, and the creative economy.
President William Ruto witnessed the signing of a lease agreement between the Kenya Railways Corporation and Zaria Group for the development of a modern arena and entertainment district under the Nairobi Railway City project.
Zaria Group co-founder Masai Ujiri described the project as a historic milestone, saying it goes beyond sports to become a major driver of Africa’s creative economy.
“I’m actually overwhelmed, Your Excellency. This is historical. This is momentous,” Ujiri said.
He emphasised that the arena will not be limited to basketball, but will serve as a business hub for sports, entertainment, and the creative industry across Africa.
“In Africa, we don’t understand sports, entertainment, and the creative industry as a business. This is a business. This is going to become an economic driver,” he said.
Ujiri noted that the facility will provide young people with space to express themselves, adding that sports and the creative industry play a role in promoting peace, unity, and opportunity.
He also acknowledged Rwanda’s role in pioneering such developments, referencing Zaria Court and President Paul Kagame’s leadership in advancing sports infrastructure on the continent.
“President Kagame and Kigali and the Kigali arena have done an incredible job of at least starting this for us,” Ujiri said, adding that the Nairobi project will strengthen continental exchange in sports and entertainment.
The Nairobi Railway City arena is expected to become a key anchor for regional cultural and sporting exchanges, with plans for artists, athletes, and performers to circulate between African cities for events and competitions.
The Kigali complex was inaugurated by President Kagame in July 2025.
The $25 million world-class sports and lifestyle complex in Kigali was inaugurated by President Kagame in July 2025, during the Giants of Africa Festival, a pan-African celebration of youth, creativity, and sport. The event drew notable figures, including Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, business leaders, creatives, and young talents from across the continent. The property recently joined Hilton’s Tapestry Collection as a franchised partner.
Zaria Court features an 80-room hotel, multiple restaurants, a rooftop lounge, a gym, co-working spaces, a podcast studio, a broadcast centre, and a large multipurpose arena for sports, concerts, and cultural events.
Outside, the facility includes five-a-side football pitches, a callisthenics area, children’s play zones, and open green spaces. A modular retail park, built from stacked shipping containers, provides affordable space for Kigali’s rising designers, food vendors, and small business owners.
The complex features an 80-room hotel, multiple restaurants, a rooftop lounge, a gym, co-working spaces, a podcast studio, a broadcast centre, and a large multipurpose arena for sports, concerts, and cultural events.
Having joined APR FC in January 2025 after moving from JS Kabylie in Algeria, Ouattara had spent nine months in Rwanda before he decided to pay his respects at the memorial in October.
The visit was not just a routine tour but a profound, personal journey to understand the painful history that Rwanda went through in 1994, a history that saw the loss of over a million Tutsi lives during the genocide.
Speaking to IGIHE in an exclusive interview, Ouattara said that the visit was a moment of reflection and a way to honor the victims of this devastating period in Rwanda’s history.
“I visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial to better understand the history of Rwanda, to pay tribute to the victims, and to take a moment of reflection,” Ouattara shared.
The memorial, with its heart-wrenching exhibits and solemn atmosphere, gave him the opportunity to grasp the depth of Rwanda’s suffering during the genocide and to appreciate the resilience of its people.
Ouattara was visibly moved by what he encountered at the memorial. At Gisozi, he saw exhibits, testimonies, and photos of victims, as well as the graves where thousands of Tutsi victims are buried.
He described the experience, saying, “At Gisozi, I discovered a place full of history, pain, and dignity. I saw exhibits on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, testimonies, photos of victims, and the graves where thousands of people rest. It is a very striking and deeply moving place.”
The powerful imagery and personal stories he witnessed at the memorial left a lasting impression on him.
After his visit, Ouattara shared the experience with friends and family, emphasizing the importance of remembering the past and learning from it.
“Yes, I talked about it with some of my friends because I think this kind of visit is important to share. It’s a way to raise awareness, transmit the memory, and encourage everyone to reflect on the consequences of hatred and division,” he explained.
For Ouattara, it is crucial that people understand the tragic history of Rwanda to prevent similar atrocities from happening again.
The striker was also inspired by Rwanda’s remarkable recovery and unity. He admired how the country, despite its painful history, has rebuilt itself, creating a sense of national unity and hope for the future.
“I felt deeply moved by the pain of this place, but also inspired by the strength of Rwanda. Despite a very painful history, the country was able to rise again, rebuild its unity, and move forward with hope,” Ouattara reflected, noting that the strength of the Rwandan people is something that continues to inspire him.
For Ouattara, the most important takeaway from his visit was a message of memory, unity, and collective responsibility.
He emphasized the importance of peace, cohesion, and the need to protect these values every day.
“The main message I take away is the importance of memory, unity, and collective responsibility. This visit reminded me that peace, cohesion, and living together are precious values that must be protected every day,” he said.
Ouattara also had a message for the sports community, urging athletes to contribute to building a united society.
“My message to the sports community is one of unity, respect, and peace. Sport must be a space for brotherhood, discipline, and reconciliation. During this time of commemoration, I invite all actors in the sports world to remember, honor the victims, and contribute to building a united society,” he said.
He believes that sport has a vital role in promoting the values of peace and solidarity, and every athlete should be part of this mission.
As one of the top players in the Rwandan Premier League this season, Ouattara has scored 11 goals in 18 games, placing third on the top scorers’ list.
His impressive performance comes after playing a crucial role in helping APR FC win the league title, the Peace Cup, and the Heroes Cup in the previous season.
His commitment on and off the field reflects his dedication not only to football but also to spreading positive values and contributing to the well-being of society.
Djibril Ouattara of APR FC visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial at Gisozi in October 2025.Ouattara said that what he saw at the Kigali Genocide Memorial deeply moved him.This striker from Burkina Faso has been playing for APR FC since January 2025. In the 13 months he has spent at APR FC, Ouattara has won four trophies.
The championship, part of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, is rapidly establishing Rwanda as a rising hub for competitive golf in Africa.
Following a groundbreaking inaugural edition in 2025, which drew 105 golfers from 12 countries and became the first tournament in Rwanda to award Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) and World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, this year’s event is expected to attract over 150 professional and amateur players from across Africa and beyond.
The 54-hole, three-day tournament will feature a prize purse of USD 25,000 (RWF 36.5 million), along with Sunshine Development Tour Order of Merit points and valuable OWGR and WAGR points, elevating its status on the global golfing stage.
Rwandan professional Celestin Nsanzuwera made history by winning the inaugural championship in 2025, a triumph that not only boosted his international ranking but also signalled a shift in Rwanda’s golf narrative from a niche pursuit to a competitive sport with growing international relevance.
Speaking ahead of the 2026 edition, Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing promoter Charles Gacheru said the success of the inaugural event in Kigali demonstrated the untapped potential within the region, both in terms of talent and the ability to host world-class tournaments.
“This year, we are building on that foundation by expanding participation and creating more opportunities for players to earn ranking points and progress within the global golf structure,” Gacheru said.
Christian Gakwaya, lead of the SportsBiz Africa Forum, highlighted the tournament’s wider impact.
“This championship is more than a tournament, it is part of SBA’s vision to build world-class sporting assets that connect sport with business and drive sustainable development. As we grow this event into a recurring, high-level platform, we are not only showcasing Rwanda as a premier destination for international sport, but also creating meaningful opportunities for local talent, partners, and the wider sports ecosystem,” he said.
The return of the SBA Golf Championship underscores Rwanda’s growing role in international sports and strengthens pathways for African golfers to compete on the global stage. The 2026 Sunshine Development Tour will also expand to 14 events across East Africa, including a new West Africa leg, the Alpha Bravo Golf Classic in Lagos, Nigeria.
As anticipation builds, the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas is expected to become the center of Africa’s golfing spotlight this September, with over 150 players set to tee off for glory in the second edition of the championship.
The championship, part of the Sunshine Development Tour – East Africa Swing, is rapidly establishing Rwanda as a rising hub for competitive golf in Africa.The SportsBiz Africa (SBA) Golf Championship is set to return to Kigali for its second edition from 10th to 13th September at the Kigali Golf Resort & Villas.Rwandan professional Celestin Nsanzuwera made history by winning the inaugural SportsBiz Africa Golf Championship in 2025The triumph of Rwandan Celestin Nsanzuwera not only boosted his international ranking but also signalled a shift in Rwanda’s golf narrative from a niche pursuit to a competitive sport with growing international relevance.
The Burundian coach joins from Kiyovu Sports FC, where he delivered impressive performances this season despite the club facing financial difficulties.
With only a few months remaining on his contract, Haringingo makes the switch following Rayon Sports’ decision to part ways with Bruno Ferry, who was dismissed after just three months in charge.
Rayon Sports’ leadership has set clear ambitions of winning the league title, last secured in 2019 or lifting at least one domestic trophy this season.
The team is currently preparing for the resumption of the Rwanda Premier League, with a Matchday 26 fixture against Gicumbi FC scheduled for Saturday at 6:00 PM at Kigali Pelé Stadium.
Haringingo previously coached Rayon Sports in 2023, when he led the club to victory in the Rwandan Peace Cup. He takes over a side currently sitting fourth in the league standings with 42 points.
Francis Haringingo Christian has rejoined Rayon Sports FC as head coach. Haringingo previously coached Rayon Sports in 2023, when he led the club to victory in the Rwandan Peace Cup.
In a press conference on Sunday, March 29, 2026, Bizimana shared his thoughts ahead of the final match of the FIFA Series in Kigali.
When asked about facing Estonia, the first European team Amavubi will face, he acknowledged the tough challenge ahead.
“This will be our first time playing against a European team since I joined Amavubi. We closely follow their leagues, and many European players have a similar style of play. As a team, we’ve discussed this, and we’re determined to win the match,” he said.
“Each player is eager to win a big match, especially one that others might think is out of reach for us. What we also hope for is the support of our fans, just like in our last match. We’re committed to giving our all to secure the victory.”
Rwanda’s national team has often given their fans hope with impressive wins, followed by disappointing losses or draws.
However, Bizimana assured that this time, Amavubi are determined to create a new chapter in the team’s history.
“History is history, and the past is behind us. Now, we are preparing for the final game, and we know we must give everything we have to keep the trophy with us because we may never have another opportunity to host it. This is a new moment for us to make our own history,” he emphasized.
The final Group A match of the 2026 FIFA Series will see Amavubi face Estonia on Monday, March 30, at 1:30 PM at Amahoro Stadium.
Rwanda secured their spot in the final after a dominant 4-0 win over Grenada, with goals from Leroy-Jacques Mickels, Kwizera Jojea, Bizimana Djihad, and Hakim Sahabo.
Estonia advanced after defeating Kenya in a penalty shootout, winning 5-4 after a 1-1 draw.
Rwanda secured their spot in the final after a dominant 4-0 win over Grenada,Bizimana assured that this time, Amavubi are determined to create a new chapter in the team’s history.
