In a compelling blend of sport, remembrance, and youth empowerment, Kigali recently hosted Play4Kwibuka31—a five-day commemorative football initiative dedicated to honouring the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, especially the 110 football players, coaches, referees, journalists, and fans who perished during the atrocities. Held over two weekends, from April 26 to May 4, the initiative mobilized over 500 children and 200 veteran players across various locations in Kigali. It aimed to instill values of peace, empathy, and unity in Rwanda’s young generation through sport and education. Organized by the Former Amavubi Players Association (FAPA), Ishami Foundation, and a host of local partners—including community academies—with support from the City of Kigali, the Ministry of Sport, and Kepler University (which provided game facilities), Play4Kwibuka31 once again showcased the power of football as a tool for healing and nation-building. “This is not just a game. It’s an opportunity to honour the past and shape a more peaceful future,” said genocide survivor and former Amavubi captain former Eugene Eric Murangwa. Muragwa is also the president of FAPA and co-founder of Ishami Foundation. A Solemn Beginning The initiative opened with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Families and teammates of fallen football legends and leaders paid tribute, while survivors shared personal stories of loss, survival, and resilience. A powerful panel discussion followed, focusing on “The Role of Football Before, During and After the Genocide.” The session underscored how football was not only a unifying force before 1994 but also a potential platform for peace and healing today. “Our tribute to the football heroes we lost is to carry their legacy forward on and off the pitch,” said Abraham Nayandi, one of the panelists. From tragedy to teamwork In the days that followed, commemorative matches brought together boys and girls aged 13 to 16, as well as veteran players from various Kigali-based teams. Held at venues including Pele Stadium, Tapis Rouge, and Kepler University, these games were more than just sporting events—they served as powerful platforms for learning, remembrance, and honour. Mixed teams from different backgrounds promoted inclusion and teamwork. Off the field, peace education sessions explored themes of Ndi Umunyarwanda, Kwigira, and Kwibuka, while storytelling and group discussions enabled youth to reflect on identity and community. “I will never forget visiting the Genocide memorial. It made me want to do something positive with my life,” said Salomon Gahunga Kirenga, an 11-year-old participant from Nunga Football Academy. Celebration and Reflection The final day, held on May 4, was a festival of resilience. Families, community leaders, and former national players joined to witness the impact of the initiative. Highlights included purposeful play sessions linking football with Genocide education and Home Grown Solutions and final matches in U16 categories. A veterans' match featuring former Amavubi players, Team FAPA and Karibu FC was also played before a certificate giving ceremony recognizing youth for sportsmanship, leadership and sporting achievements. Forever Girls and Shining Football Academy were crowned champions in their respective categories, while Karibu FC claimed victory in the veterans’ match. “Our children are learning the values that will sustain Rwanda for generations,” noted Saidati Mukanoheri, one of the organisers and the owner of Forever Girls Team. Looking forward With strong participation from community coaches, educators, and institutions, Play4Kwibuka31reaffirmed the role of sport in promoting social cohesion. Organisers plan to expand the initiative nationwide, increase coach training in sport-based peacebuilding, and launch school-based remembrance clubs in collaboration with local and national stakeholders. “From one football field to many, we aim to plant seeds of remembrance and peace across Rwanda,” said Oscarie Niyigena, a Community Impact Coach from Ishami Foundation and FAPA. A call to support As Play4Kwibuka evolves into a national movement, organizers are calling on individuals, institutions, and sponsors to support the programme through mentorship, partnership, and resources.
