Six young Rwandan tennis players on Monday morning, July 17, departed Kigali International Airport for the forthcoming sixth edition of the East African Junior Team’s U-12 Championship slated for July 18-22, in Kampala, Uganda

Rwanda is among six countries that will be represented at the five-day tournament. Other participating countries include Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, Seychelles and hosts Uganda.

Isabelle Akimanzi Kenkazi, one of three girls representing Rwanda at the tournament, is hoping to shine on her debut appearance in a regional tennis competition.

The 11-year-old told Times Sport that she and her teammates are ready for the challenge, with confidence to return home with a title.

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"It’s amazing to play the U-12 championship with my friends, it is going to be my first international competition but, with the current level we are on, we are going to win it for sure,” said Akimanzi.

"It’s like a magic dream coming true to travel to Uganda to represent my country at an East African championship.”

Uganda and Kenya were crowned champions of the 2022 edition held in Kigali.

The Rwandan team traveling to Kampala comprises six players including three boys and three girls.

Squads

Boys: Jedekia Niyibizi, Kian Ineza, Ben Alick Sheja.

Girls: Fidela Sheja, Isabel Akimanzi Kenkazi, Julienne Uwitonze.

Coaches: Eric Bimenyimana Uwamahoro, Matutina Irumva.