The Rwanda Premier League (RPL) has once again urged Gicumbi FC to address a number of shortcomings at Gicumbi Stadium following inspection reports and feedback from match officials. A statement issued by RPL on Saturday indicates that the stadium continues to fall short of several requirements necessary for hosting top-flight football matches. The issues identified include inadequate restroom facilities for supporters, the absence of designated positions for television broadcast cameras, a VIP seating arrangement that obstructs a clear view of the pitch, and the lack of a dedicated dressing room for match officials. The league warned that a follow-up inspection conducted jointly by the RPL and the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) will determine whether the concerns have been adequately addressed. Should the deficiencies persist and the stadium fail to meet the required standards, further action may be taken. Possible sanctions include requiring Gicumbi FC to play home matches behind closed doors, without spectators, or relocating its home fixtures to an alternative stadium that complies with league regulations. The concerns emerge despite significant investment in the facility over the past several years. Located in Gicumbi District, the stadium has undergone a multi-phase development and rehabilitation programme aimed at transforming it into a modern football venue with artificial turf and expanded seating capacity. Initial plans to develop the stadium into a modern 3,000-seat facility were launched between 2018 and 2021 through partnerships involving FERWAFA, local authorities and regional football development initiatives. A major reconstruction and modernization project later commenced in November 2024 at a cost exceeding Rwf900 million, increasing the stadium's capacity to between 5,000 and 6,000 seated spectators, while adding VIP sections and installing a modern synthetic playing surface. The rehabilitation works, which formed part of a broader FERWAFA and FIFA-supported programme to upgrade football infrastructure across the country, were completed in 2026. The project was included in a wider artificial turf and stadium development initiative that also benefited Rusizi and Rutsiro districts. The latest concerns have therefore raised questions about whether supporting facilities and operational requirements have kept pace with the extensive infrastructure upgrades carried out at the venue. The league body and FERWAFA said the measures are part of ongoing efforts to improve the quality and professionalism of the BK Pro League. The two bodies also reminded all clubs of their responsibility to ensure that stadiums hosting league matches fully comply with football regulations and infrastructure standards in Rwanda.
