RWANDA U17 WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM BEGINS JOURNEY TOWARDS THE FIFA U17 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP 2026

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‎On December 21, 2025, a new chapter was written in the history of women’s football in Rwanda as 32 players of the Rwanda U17 Women’s National Team (Amavubi U17) gathered for their first-ever residential training camp. This major milestone officially marked the start of preparations for the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup 2026, with qualification matches scheduled to begin in April 2026.

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‎This training camp represents a significant step in building the future of women’s football in Rwanda. For the first time, a large group of nationally selected young female players has come together for a long-term, structured training program aimed at preparing them comprehensively physically, mentally, and tactically to meet international standards.

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‎A One-Week Camp Laying the Foundation for Sustainable Development

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‎The first camp was designed as a foundational phase lasting seven days, running until December 27, 2025. During this period, players are being taught the fundamental principles of high-level football, with a focus on improving physical fitness, understanding tactical aspects of the game, and strengthening mental resilience and values befitting those who wear the national jersey.

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‎Coaches and technical staff are placing strong emphasis on building a unified team with a shared vision, discipline, and the ability to grow together over the long preparation period ahead. This camp is considered the cornerstone of a long journey that will require dedication, teamwork, and perseverance.

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‎Nationwide Talent Identification and Selection

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‎Reaching this stage was not an overnight achievement. It was preceded by a nationwide talent identification and scouting process conducted from November 21 to December 15, 2025. During this period, young players from various regions of the country were given the opportunity to showcase their talents in front of national team coaches.

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‎Out of 48 players who demonstrated promising ability and potential, 32 were selected to take part in this first training camp. This process highlighted the abundance of young football talent in Rwanda that deserves sustained support and development.

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‎Team Refinement and Preparation for the Next Phase

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‎Following this one-week camp, the coaching staff will continue to assess each player’s performance, focusing on technical level, discipline, willingness to learn, and ability to work within a team. It is expected that 26 players will be selected to progress to the next stages of preparation.

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‎The upcoming phases will focus on refining playing style, increasing the number of friendly matches, and thoroughly preparing the team that will represent Rwanda in the World Cup qualification matches.

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‎Hope and a New Vision for Women’s Football

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‎This program is a clear indication of the growing importance and long-term vision being given to women’s football in Rwanda. Beginning structured development at a young age enables the country to build a strong national team capable of competing at both continental and global levels.

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‎Although the journey ahead is long and demanding, the first step has been taken. The Rwanda U17 Women’s National Team has embarked on a remarkable path one that inspires hope for a bright future for women’s football in Rwanda.

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‎Written by Migisha Janviére