You may have seen him between the posts making acrobatic saves—flying across the goal, twisting mid-air and stretching every muscle to deny what seems like a certain score. That is Peter Kwisanga, Rwanda’s fearless last line of defence and national team captain. Born in Rwamagana District, Kwisanga was just 14 when he was introduced to handball — a sport that would soon define his identity. ALSO READ: CAN Handball: Hosts Rwanda, Algeria in Group A, holders Egypt in Group B His journey began in 2017 at Mutendeli TSS, a school renowned for nurturing some of Rwanda’s finest handball talents. Later that same year, he joined Gorillas Handball Academy at Kimisagara Youth Centre, where his raw potential was refined. “My handball journey began in high school when I was 14. It was at Gorillas Academy that I truly started to develop and refine my talent,” Kwisanga told Weekend Sport. It did not take long before the sport captured his heart. “I quickly fell in love with the speed of the game, the physical challenge, and especially how a goalkeeper can stop a powerful shot with just his arm. It felt like the sport where I could best express my talent and passion.” Overcoming setbacks His rise, however, was not without obstacles. Balancing academics, training and personal life proved demanding. In 2019, a serious injury sidelined him for eight months — a setback that could have derailed his momentum. Instead, it strengthened his mental resolve. “That period was a dark time that tested my patience and mindset. But I used those moments as motivation to work harder,” he said. ALSO READ: Handball: Police clinches league title Kwisanga’s return coincided with a major breakthrough. APR HC came calling shortly after his rehabilitation, and he did not hesitate to seize the opportunity. His debut season with APR in 2019 was memorable, helping the club reach the East and Central Africa Club Championship final. He later featured for Police Handball Club, playing a pivotal role in their run to the quarterfinals of the 2025 African Club Championship in Morocco, where he was named Most Valuable Player. On the international stage, Kwisanga represented Rwanda at the U19 World Championship in Croatia in 2023. In 2024, he captained Rwanda to victory at the IHF Challenge Trophy U20 in Ethiopia — the same year he earned his first senior national team call-up for the Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. Domestically, his trophy cabinet includes league titles with APR and Police HC, as well as a championship triumph with Ndejje University in Uganda. He was part of the Police HC squad that clinched the 2025 national handball league title after defeating APR in the finals. Guided by mentors, driven by purpose Kwisanga credits much of his development to two mentors: coach Alex Ndabikunze, who inspired him in his early years, and APR coach Anaclet Bagirishya, who provided structure and opportunity upon his arrival at the club. Under their guidance, he evolved from a promising teenager into a composed and commanding goalkeeper — and Rwanda’s national team captain at just 21 years old. “Being national team captain means a lot to me. Wearing this shirt for Rwanda means more than leading on the court,” he said. “It is a great honour and a big responsibility. I represent not only my teammates but also my country, my family and everyone who believes in me. It is not just fabric.” Beyond personal accolades, Kwisanga remains focused on the broader growth of the sport. “I believe handball in Rwanda is improving at a very good level. We see development in youth programmes, coaching and competition exposure. Many young talents are emerging, and the future is promising.” Competing at the Africa Cup of Nations further shaped his outlook. “Participating at the Africa Cup taught me the importance of preparation and mental strength. Competing against stronger nations shows the standards required for us to become a solid handball nation and for me to become a better player.” For Kwisanga, the journey is far from over. Between the posts, he continues to guard not just the goal — but Rwanda’s growing handball ambitions.
