Rwanda is set to welcome East and Central Africa’s finest clubs after the Council of East and Central Africa Football Associations (CECAFA) confirmed the first 11 teams that will compete in the CECAFA Kagame Cup 2026, scheduled to take place from 24 July to 8 August at Amahoro Stadium and Kigali Pele Stadium.

The regional tournament returns to Rwanda with a strong lineup featuring some of the biggest names in East and Central African football, including six-time champions Simba SC of Tanzania, who make their long-awaited return to the competition for the first time since 2018.

Representing the host nation will be APR FC and Rayon Sports FC, as Rwanda aims to make the most of home advantage in front of passionate local supporters.

Other confirmed participants include Vipers SC (Uganda), Al Hilal SC, El Merrikh SC (Sudan), Gor Mahia FC (Kenya), Mogadishu City FC (Somalia), Jamus SC (South Sudan), FC Garde Républicaine (Djibouti) and KVZ FC (Zanzibar). The 12th and final team is expected to be announced on 6 July.

According to CECAFA Interim Executive Director Jean Ssende, the tournament will provide clubs with valuable competitive preparation ahead of the CAF Interclub Competitions, which kick off in September.

As hosts, Rwanda is once again preparing to showcase its world-class football infrastructure and hospitality, with Amahoro Stadium and Kigali Pele Stadium ready to stage two weeks of thrilling regional football.