Kigali Shines at 2025 Umurenge Kagame Cup Finals in Musanze

By Elias Hakizimana.

The 2025 edition of the Umurenge Kagame Cup concluded on Sunday, June 15, in Musanze District, with the City of Kigali emerging as the top performer, dominating the awards in a tournament that brought together all 416 sectors (Imirenge) across Rwanda.

The national competition—named after President Paul Kagame—promotes unity, good governance, and grassroots sports development. This year’s final matches were preceded by semi-final and third-place games in volleyball and basketball on June 14, along with a vibrant “Night Run” through Musanze town.

The grand finale drew large crowds of enthusiastic fans, alongside high-ranking officials including the Minister of Local Government, Dr. Patrice Mugenzi; Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports, Uwayezu Regis; and district mayors from Huye, Musanze, Kayonza, and Kigali City Mayor Dusengiyumva Samuel.

Kigali Leads in Medals

Kigali City walked away with the highest number of accolades. Among the gold medalists were Masengo Djibril and Uwamaliya Solange, who topped the long jump competition. In men’s football, Jabana Sector from Gasabo District claimed the championship after defeating Mbazi Sector from Huye 2-0.

Other standout performances from Kigali included:

• Kacyiru Sector: 2nd place in women’s football
• Kicukiro District: 1st place in men’s volleyball
• Tug of War: Kigali placed 2nd
• Athletics: Several top finishes, including a gold in the 15,000m by Ntivuguruzwa and a gold in the women’s 10,000m by Niyonshima Zakia.

Kigali was also awarded the overall trophy for the region with the most medals.

Other Notable Winners

• Mahembe Sector (Nyamasheke): Gold in women’s football after beating Kacyiru 1-0
• Gicumbi District: Women’s volleyball champions, defeating Ngoma 3-2
• Mfiteyezu Emmanuel (Gicumbi) and Mukarugwiza Marie Solange (Kamonyi): Top in cycling
• Niyibizi Emmanuel (Musanze): 1st place in 3,000m race
• Sitball: Bugesera won the women’s title; Kirehe took the men’s title
• Basketball (Men): Musanze beat Rutsiro 78-71 to claim the trophy

Minister Applauds Growing Participation

Minister Dr. Mugenzi hailed the tournament’s growing popularity and praised local leaders for embracing its purpose.

“We’re thrilled to see this level of participation. All 416 sectors took part, and today’s turnout is a strong sign of support for the Kagame Cup and for the President’s vision of citizen-centered governance,” he said.

“This is a moment for all leaders to reflect on the President’s guidance—let’s prioritize the citizen, listen to their needs, and serve them better.”

Launched in 2006, the Umurenge Kagame Cup continues to expand its reach each year. The 2026 finals are expected to take place in Rwanda’s Eastern Province.

Burasirazuba.