National women's new head coach Claude Rwaka called up 20 players to start preparations for the Eastern Africa Games.

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The tournament will be held in Kigali from February 2-10, featuring five countries: hosts Rwanda, Uganda, South Sudan, Tanzania and Burundi.

Rwaka, who currently coaches topflight side Rayon Sports WFC, takes over from Grace Nyinawumuntu, who led the team during the 2024 Women's Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against the Black Queens of Ghana September, 2023.

According to a source close to the FA, Rwaka doesn't have a contract as the women's national team coach, but will be in charge of the team for this tournament before returning to his club. AS Kigali WFC's coach, Théogenie Mukamusonera, will be the assistant coach.

Full squad:

Goalkeepers: Angelina Ndakimana (AS Kigali), Claudine Itangishaka (Rayon Sports).

Defenders: Lydia Uzayisenga (APAER), Louise Maniraguha (AS Kigali), Joselyne Mukantaganira (Rayon Sports), Aline Ingabire (AS Kigali), Sifa Gloria Nibagwire (AS Kigali), Andorsene Uwase (Rayon Sports), and Providence Mukahirwa (Fatima WFC).

Midfielders: Marie Claire Dukuzumuremyi (Inyemera WFC), Alice Kalimba (Rayon Sports), Alodie Kayitesi (Rayon Sports), Florentine Mutuyimana (AS Kigali), and Libellée Nibagwire (Rayon Sports).

Forwards: Zawadi Usanase (AS Kigali), Emerance Niyonshuti (Kamonyi WFC), Dorothée Mukeshimana (Rayon Sports), Evelyne Ishimwe Amizero (Kamonyi WFC), Jeanine Mukandayisenga (Rayon Sports) and Emelyne Mukagatete (Muhazi United).