Rwanda secured their first victory at the 2026 African Women’s Nations Volleyball Championship after sweeping Algeria in straight sets (25-22, 25-20, 25-16) in opening Group D encounter at Ulinzi Complex Indoor Arena on Tuesday.

The victory came a day after the two sides had faced each other in a friendly match, giving both teams a quick turnaround ahead of their Group D encounter.

Algeria made a determined start, but Rwanda captain Valentine Munezero and setter Diane Mpuhwezimana helped the team settle quickly and establish an early advantage.

Munezero scored five points, while Diane added four as Rwanda edged the opening set 25-22.

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Coach Frédéric Guérin introduced outside hitter Aloysie Tuyishime at the start of the second set, and the change immediately paid dividends. Tuyishime contributed six points as Rwanda maintained control to take the set 25-20.

Rwanda then stepped up their performance in the third set, capitalising on Algeria’s struggles to close out the match comfortably and complete a 3-0 victory.

Munezero and Tuyishime led Rwanda’s scoring with 16 and 14 points respectively, as the national team wrapped up the match in one hour and 21 minutes.

The victory gives Rwanda an important boost in their campaign as they target a strong finish in the continental tournament.

Rwanda will return to action on Wednesday, August 26, when they face DR Congo at 9am.