Rwanda national women’s volleyball team has set a target to be among the top four teams in Africa in 2017, according to head coach Paul Bitok.

Bitok explained that they will begin early preparations as they start the journey towards becoming a strong force in African volleyball.

Rwanda Volleyball Federation (FRVB) is set to hold a special training camp for the team next month in preparation for the various CAVB African qualifiers as well as the 2016 World Championship qualifiers.

"Our aim is to be in the top four in 2017. We know that it will be a tough journey that needs careful planning, commitment and sacrifice but I am confident that we are up for the challenge,” said Bitok.

"We made a five-year development plan with a short term target of being in the top four position by 2017. We believe that the team will receive enough requirements to compete in all CAVB competitions because playing against the best teams in Africa makes us stronger,” Bitok added.

The former Kenyan international added that, "Our journey started in 2010 with the youth team and majority are playing for Rwanda Revenue Authority at club championship where they finished fifth which is something positive for us.”

"Now they are between 20-23 years which is the right age to compete at the international level. I believe we are in the right position to compete against big teams, which will give us experience,” he noted.

Rwanda has not featured in CAVB organised Africa Cup of Nations Championship for the last four years and Bitok believes he has the right players who have developed through the ranks and ready to blossom at the continental stage.

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