As preparations for the 2016 U18 FIBA Africa Basketball Championships reach final stages, the 12 participating countries have been revealed. The tournament is scheduled for July 22-31 in Kigali at Amahoro indoor stadium. Zone V is represented by three countries namely; Uganda, hosts Rwanda and defending champions, Egypt. The two finalists will qualify to represent Africa at the 2017 FIBA Under-19 World Championships in Cairo, Egypt. The hosts, Rwanda started residential camp at Green Hills Academy on June 21, hoping to use the home advantage in their bid to qualify for the World championships for the first time. African reigning champions Egypt finished 11th at last year’s World Championships in Heraklion, Greece where the United States retained the title after overcoming Croatia 103-81 in the final. Algeria and Tunisia will represent Zone I, Mali will be the sole Zone II ambassadors in Kigali, Ivory Coast and Burkina Faso will represent Zone III, Gabon and Democratic Republic of Congo will carry the Zone IV flag while Zimbabwe and Angola will be representing Zone VI. The last time Rwanda hosted the U18 FIBA Africa Men’s Championships was in 2010 and finished sixth. Rwanda team in camp: Cadeau de Dieu Furaha, Patrick Nshizirungu, Paul Chris Ntihinda, Arnaud Nkusi, Emile Galois Kezeneza, Derrick Tumusiime, Osborn Shema, Wilson Nshobozwabyosenumukiza, Samuel Niyonshuti, Sano Gasana, Gavin Mucyo, Chester Kayonga, Davis Bagire, Enock Kisa Kyeune and Jesse Ntihemuka. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
