The annual IMIZI Alliance Tournament concluded on a successful note on Saturday, January 3rd, reaffirming its growing importance in Rwanda’s grassroots football ecosystem.
The competition, which kicked off last month, brought together 20 teams and marked the third edition of the tournament organized under the IMIZI Football Alliance framework.
Structured around youth development, the tournament featured age-category competitions and culminated in exciting finals across three divisions.
In the Under-10 (U10) category, APR FC emerged champions after a convincing 3-1 victory over Future Light, displaying technical quality and discipline well beyond their age.
The Under-13 (U13) final saw Hirwa Sport dominate Family Talent Football Academy, securing a 2–0 win to lift the trophy.
Meanwhile, the Under-16 (U16) final delivered high drama as Intare FA and Ramadhan Foundation played out a goalless draw in regulation time. The title was eventually decided via penalties, where Ramadhan Foundation prevailed 4–2, showcasing composure under pressure.
The tournament organizers ensured that all participating teams were rewarded, reinforcing the developmental nature of the competition.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, FERWAFA President Mr. Shema Ngoga Fabrice praised the quality of organization and talent on display, describing the IMIZI Tournament as “a strong foundation for Rwanda’s future football.”
“What we have witnessed here confirms that the IMIZI Tournament has outgrown its initial stage. FERWAFA is committed to supporting initiatives like this and upgrading them to the highest level of youth football development,” said Mr. Shema Ngoga Fabrice.
He further pledged additional personal rewards to the teams that emerged victorious in the finals, underlining his commitment to motivating young talents.
With its steady growth, increasing competitiveness, and now strong backing from FERWAFA’s leadership, the IMIZI Tournament is positioning itself as a premier grassroots development platform.
The tournament not only celebrated young talent but also set a clear pathway for the tournament’s elevation to national prominence in Rwanda’s football development agenda.