Rwanda’s qualification for the 2027 CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations marks more than a milestone for the country’s youth football programme. It also represents a defining moment for head coach Jimmy Mulisa, whose journey has come full circle from representing Rwanda at Africa’s biggest football stage as a player to guiding the next generation to continental qualification from the touchline. Rwanda secured their place at the 2027 U-17 AFCON after defeating Ethiopia 2-1 in the third-place match of the CECAFA U-17 Championship, which concluded in Kigali on Tuesday. ALSO READ: Rwanda beat Ethiopia to seal ticket to 2027 AFCON U17 The victory secured the hosts a place in the finals in Morocco, making history as the first Rwandan U-17 team to qualify for the tournament through competition rather than automatic qualification as hosts. For Mulisa, the achievement carries special significance. More than two decades ago, the former Amavubi midfielder was part of the Rwanda squad that qualified for the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia, the country’s first and only appearance at the senior continental tournament. Today, he is celebrating another historic qualification, this time as the coach guiding a talented generation determined to make its mark on African football. Speaking after the victory over Ethiopia, Mulisa praised his players for their determination, discipline and preparation. “I am happy with the team I have. What happened today was the result of facing a good side and preparing well. Ethiopia are a strong team, so earning qualification against such an opposition is commendable,” he said. “Our first objective was to qualify for the finals, and we have achieved it. Now we want to keep pushing for a better finish in the tournament. It is a great achievement for us.” Mulisa, who has dedicated much of his career to developing young footballers through Umuri Football Academy, also highlighted the quality of talent emerging from Rwanda’s youth ranks, expressing confidence in the country’s footballing future. These players are very talented, as shown by the goals they scored and the football they are playing. It demonstrates that Rwanda possesses football talent and soon, we will have players capable of competing at the highest level,” he added. Mulisa is no stranger to landmark moments in Rwandan football. As a player, he was part of the celebrated 2004 AFCON generation that remains a defining chapter in the country’s sporting history. Known for his leadership, technical ability and commitment, he played a role in Rwanda’s historic qualification for the tournament, which remains the senior national team’s only appearance at the Africa Cup of Nations. Since transitioning into coaching, Mulisa has channelled his experience into nurturing young talent, including through the establishment of Umuri Football Academy. His work in youth development has now reached a significant milestone, with Rwanda’s qualification for the 2027 tournament offering tangible proof of the potential within the country’s next generation. For Rwanda, qualification represents a reward for years of investment in youth football structures. For Mulisa, it is also a personal triumph and a rare accomplishment any Rwandan coach would dream about.
