Rwanda’s senior women’s national handball team began their 2026 Women’s IHF Nations Trophy, Africa Zone V campaign with a 49-9 victory over Djibouti in Tanzania on Thursday, Thursday.

Playing at the Filbert Bayi Multi-Sports Centre, Rwanda dominated the match from the opening whistle, taking a 25-3 lead into half-time.

They maintained their advantage after the break, scoring another 24 goals while conceding six to secure the 40-goal victory.

Obadia Niyingenera led Rwanda’s scoring with 10 goals, while Clesence Irakoze added eight. Noelle Mwizerimana and Clementine Hungurimana scored seven goals each.

Joy Ineza contributed five goals and was named Player of the Game.

The victory gives Rwanda a positive start in Group B at the tournament, which marks the senior women’s team’s first international competition.

Head coach Hafedz had urged his players to approach the opening match with discipline and determination while respecting their opponents.

Rwanda will face hosts Tanzania in their second Group B match on Friday, November 6, at 7 p.m.

The six-team competition, running from November 4 to 8, features Rwanda, Tanzania and Djibouti in Group B, while Uganda, Kenya and Ethiopia compete in Group A.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals on Saturday, November 7. The final is scheduled for Sunday, November 8.