FERWAFA Hosts Inspiring FIFA Women’s Football Strategy Workshop in Kigali

The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has taken another major step toward the growth of women’s football by organizing a two-day FIFA Women’s Football Strategy Stakeholders Workshop in Kigali. The workshop, which started on May 6 at the FERWAFA accommodation facility, has brought together 48 participants from across Rwanda’s football community, including club representatives, coaches, government officials, media practitioners, fan representatives, and FIFA women’s football expert Thubaelihle Sibanda. The initiative reflects Rwanda’s growing commitment to developing women’s and girls’ footba

The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has taken another major step toward the growth of women’s football by organizing a two-day FIFA Women’s Football Strategy Stakeholders Workshop in Kigali. The workshop, which started on May 6 at the FERWAFA accommodation facility, has brought together 48 participants from across Rwanda’s football community, including club representatives, coaches, government officials, media practitioners, fan representatives, and FIFA women’s football expert Thubaelihle Sibanda. The initiative reflects Rwanda’s growing commitment to developing women’s and girls’ football and creating a stronger future for the game across the country. Speaking during the opening ceremony, FERWAFA Second Vice President Richard Mugisha emphasized the importance of collaboration in building a successful strategy for the future. “This workshop was necessary because our goal is to work together with all stakeholders,” Mugisha said. “The development of a strategy is most successful when everyone contributes ideas and solutions.” Mugisha also shared Rwanda’s ambitious vision for women’s football, revealing the federation’s desire to see the national teams competing on the biggest stages before 2029. “Our shared dream is to qualify for major international competitions such as the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA Women’s World Cup before 2029,” he stated. The workshop is bringing together voices from every part of the women’s football ecosystem. Club captains are sharing players’ experiences and challenges, coaches are contributing technical insights, while club leaders are discussing governance and development opportunities. Media professionals and supporters are also exploring ways to increase visibility and public engagement around women’s football. The first day concluded with encouraging remarks from the Director General of Sports Development in the Ministry of Sports, Gilbert Muvunyi Manier, who applauded FERWAFA’s initiative and reaffirmed the government’s support for the continued growth of women’s football in Rwanda. The workshop continues on Thursday with participants working in groups to identify strategic priorities and practical solutions that will shape the final women’s football strategy document. As part of promoting unity and teamwork, participants will also take part in a friendly football match during the programme. The workshop marks another positive milestone for Rwandan football as the country continues investing in the development, empowerment, and visibility of women and girls in sports.