The British High Commission Kigali, in partnership with the Government of Rwanda, hosted DiploCup 2026 on Saturday, March 28—a mixed-gender, family-friendly football tournament aimed at strengthening ties within Kigali’s diplomatic community. Held at Zaria Court Kigali mini football pitch, the 6-a-side co-ed competition brought together diplomatic staff from countries including Germany, the United Kingdom, Japan, Ukraine, Sudan, Ghana, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Canada, alongside representatives from the United Nations and Rwanda. Focused on fair play, inclusion, and informal engagement, the tournament featured teams from embassies and high commissions accredited to Rwanda, as well as a side representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MINAFFET). The event was open and free to diplomatic staff, their families, embassy workers, and members of both the local and expatriate communities. Speaking during the event, Billy Stewart, Development Director at the British High Commission, said the initiative was designed to build stronger connections through sport. “DiploCup is a simple but effective way to bring the diplomatic and local communities together, using sport to strengthen relationships and encourage collaboration.” ALSO READ: New platform seeks to amplify women voices in diplomacy The tournament followed a group-stage format before progressing to knockout rounds and the final, creating a lively atmosphere for both players and spectators. Virgile Rwanyagatare, Director General for Asia, Pacific, and the Middle East at MINAFFET, emphasized the importance of such platforms in fostering informal engagement. “These activities bring diplomats together beyond the office setting and give them time for leisure, which is important in building relationships. Sport is a powerful way to achieve that.” Beyond the matches, DiploCup 2026 also carried a social impact mission, raising funds for SheScores—a project focused on empowering girls through football and leadership development. Camilla Bernatchez, a Canadian participant, said her involvement was inspired by the challenges faced by young girls in local communities. “When I came to Rwanda, I wanted to find a team to join. That led me to Kimisagara Youth Centre, where I saw the difficult conditions many talented girls face. That is why we want to raise funds to support them.” She added that the initiative also aims to promote self-reliance by supporting small business opportunities for the girls and their families. At the end of the tournament, the Ghanaian team emerged as champions, while the United Nations side finished runners-up—capping off a day that blended sport, diplomacy, and community impact.
