Umurenge Kagame Cup 2026 Concludes in Bugesera
The 2026 edition of the Umurenge Kagame Cup officially concluded on Sunday, 21 June 2026, at Nyamata Stadium in Bugesera District, bringing together athletes, local leaders, and sports enthusiasts from across the country in a vibrant celebration of talent, unity, and community spirit.
The two-day national finals, held from 20 to 21 June, were graced by the Minister of Local Government, Hon. Dominique Habimana, and the Minister of Sports, Hon. Nelly Mukazayire, alongside other government officials, local leaders, and members of the public.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, Minister Habimana congratulated the winning teams and outstanding individual performers, emphasizing that Umurenge Kagame Cup has grown into more than a sports competition. He noted that the tournament plays an important role in promoting values that are essential not only in sports but also in everyday life and national development.
“The values we learn through these competitions are the same values that should guide us in our daily work and responsibilities. We learn to work towards a common goal, collaborate effectively, persevere, and strive for excellence. Beyond competition, these games bring joy, strengthen social cohesion, and provide a platform for identifying and nurturing talent,” he said.
The 2026 tournament featured competitions in football, volleyball, basketball, sitting volleyball, athletics, cycling, long jump, traditional chess (Kubuguza/Igisoro), with both men and women competing at the national level after progressing through lower administrative levels.
In football, Masaka Sector from Kicukiro District emerged as the national champions in the men's category, while Mahembe Sector from Nyamasheke District claimed the title in the women's category after impressive performances throughout the competition.
Basketball titles went to Kayonza District in the women's category and Kicukiro District in the men's category. In volleyball, Ngoma District secured victory in the women's category, while Kicukiro District once again demonstrated its strength by winning the men's title.
In sitting volleyball, Kirehe District emerged victorious in the women's category, while Gasabo District won the men's title. The competition also recognized outstanding individual performers in cycling, running, long jump, and traditional chess (Igisoro), rewarding excellence and dedication across various sporting disciplines.
The finals attracted large crowds from different parts of the country, creating a festive atmosphere that highlighted the growing importance of sports in promoting social inclusion, healthy lifestyles, and national unity. Participants showcased not only their athletic abilities but also the spirit of teamwork, discipline, and resilience that the competition seeks to promote.
Over the years, Umurenge Kagame Cup has become one of Rwanda’s most significant grassroots sports initiatives. The tournament provides an opportunity for citizens from all sectors and districts to participate in sports and cultural activities while fostering social cohesion and strengthening community bonds. It also serves as a platform for identifying talented athletes who can progress to higher levels of competition and contribute to the development of sports in Rwanda.
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