A significant step forward in the professionalization of women’s football in Rwanda was marked today as Rubavu Today 28th July 2025, hosted the official kickoff of a three-day capacity building workshop for women’s football administrators. The initiative, facilitated by FIFA through its Women’s Football Development Program, aims to empower club leaders with the necessary skills and tools to effectively manage and develop women’s football teams across the country.

The workshop forms part of a broader effort by the Federation Rwandaise de Football Association (FERWAFA) to elevate the standard of women’s football nationwide. It is a continuation of key initiatives that include the establishment of the Rwanda Women’s Football Strategic Plan, the introduction of Club Licensing regulations for women’s teams, and the ongoing nationwide women’s football campaign.

Speaking at the opening of the workshop, the FERWAFA Commissioner for Women’s Football Development, Mrs Ancilla MUNYANKAKA, extended heartfelt gratitude to FIFA for its unwavering support.

“We sincerely thank FIFA for the consistent facilitation and partnership on our journey toward the growth and success of women’s football in Rwanda. This workshop is an opportunity to deepen knowledge and harmonize management practices for the sustainability of our clubs,” she said.

“I urge all participants to fully engage, ask questions, and make the most of the expertise provided by our visiting FIFA specialists. These sessions are not just for learning, but also for transforming your clubs for the better.”

The workshop was also graced by FIFA expert Thuba Sibanda, who expressed her admiration for Rwanda’s proactive and structured approach to women’s football development.

“I commend FERWAFA for the tremendous progress being made, especially the introduction of professionalism within women’s football structures,” said Thuba.

“The signs of success are already visible. Your national teams and clubs are participating regularly in international competitions and now playing to win. The recent victory over Zimbabwe in the U20 Women’s World Cup Qualifiers speaks volumes about the work being done here. You even now have a permanent coach for the women’s national team. These results are not accidental; they are earned.”

Scheduled to run from July 28 to July 30, with sessions held in both Rubavu and Kigali, the workshop aims to equip participants not only with administrative and leadership skills, but also with the vision and capacity to elevate their teams to a professional level. The initiative aligns with FERWAFA’s long-term goal to ensure women’s football in Rwanda continues on a trajectory of sustainable growth and competitive excellence.