Newly promoted national league side Pepiniere Football Club have signed former Rayon Sports coach Jean-Baptiste Kayiranga as their new head coach, penning a two-year deal until end of the 2017/18 season. Kayiranga’s first objective will be to guide the new team into respectable position and reaching far in Peace Cup next season, which is slated to start in September. The former Rwanda international midfielder has started his work in pre-season. While confirming his appointment, Kayiranga said: “I have been tasked me to guide the club into the top eight. The management wants Pepiniere to be a permanent fixture in the national league; they don’t want to be here for just one season.” Kigali-based Pepiniere won the second division league title after beating Kirehe FC on penalties. The two clubs will replace AS Muhanga and Rwamagana City, who were relegated at the end of last season. Pipinierre club president Jean Marie Munyankumburwa said, “We believe Kayiranga is the best choice available due his vast knowledge of local football and experience in the national league. We are now turning our focus on signing new players and renew the contract of some of the existing players.” Kayiranga, a former Rayon and Amavubi player, last coached in the topflight nearly two years ago when he was sacked by Mukura VS after a string of poor results. He has also coached SC Kiyovu, Gicumbi and Rwanda U23 team. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
