The ongoing transfer window in the Rwanda Volleyball League has witnessed significant player movements, with some clubs making noteworthy signings while others remain relatively quiet in the market. Weekend Sport presents the five top transfers that could impact the 2024 volleyball league which commences on January 20. Ronald Muvara (to REG) Ronald Muvara, now part of the Rwanda Energy Group volleyball team, played a pivotal role in Gisagara's title glory during the 2023 league campaign before securing a two-year deal with REG in a double move that saw him and setter Sylvestre Ndayisaba crossing to the club. Operating as a middle blocker, Muvara contributed to the national team's sixth-place finish at this year’s Volleyball African Nations Championships in Kigali. His individual exploits could, on one side, ignite REG’s title bid and shake opponents, on the other side. Ivan Mahoro Nsabimana (to Kepler) Mahoro in November left REG to sign a two-year contract for newcomers Kepler Volleyball Club. His trophy-laden career during which he enjoyed successful spells at top clubs like REG, now-defunct Rayon Sports and Russian side Ural Federal University as well as the national team position him among the best players to have graced the local volleyball league over the past decade. While being named the best setter at the CAVB African Zone V Club Championship held in Kigali in 2023 didn’t come as a surprise, Mahoro’s individual experience could spark Kepler to what could be an exceptional season in years and linking up with Jean Baptiste Tuyizere with whom they played together at REG is another reason for optimism for the newcomers. ALSO READ:Volleyball: REG signs Gisagara duo as Mahoro moves to Kepler Previously, he played for GSO Butare and the now-defunct Rayon Sports in the national volleyball league, while also representing Ural Federal University during his tertiary education in Russia from 2014 to 2018. Thon Magembo (to REG) Known for his exceptional skills as a receiver-attacker, Thon Magembo has joined the ranks of REG volleyball. Originally hailing from South Sudan, Magembo played for the SPORT-S team in Uganda for over eight years before making the move to Rwanda, where he briefly played for the former University of Kibungo (UNIK). An exceptional asset that could cause a major threat to the opponents ahead of the 2024 volleyball league season. ALSO READ: Volleyball: REG VC sign two players Samuel Tyson Niyogisubizo (to REG) Securing a two-year deal with REG volleyball, Niyogisubizo is recognized as one of Rwanda's premier right-attackers. Possessing remarkable speed and prowess in handling powerful shots from opponents, he stands out as a promising talent in the sport. Niyogisubizo was a key member of the Gisagara side that won the league title in 2023. 2024 could be a defining season for the star as REG want him to use the magic and win them a title this coming season. Samuel Niyonshima (to APR) Left-attacker Niyonshima, signed for two years with APR volleyball, returns as a pivotal player after contributing to Gisagara's championship win in the 2023 season. The 24-year-old caught the attention of APR VC coach Sammy Molinge, who signed him as the player of the year. Niyonshima, a key member of the Central National Team, has previously played for teams like IPRC South, Kirehe, and Gisagara, showcasing his versatility and experience.
