Rwanda has taken a significant step in grassroots football development following the inauguration of the first mini-pitch under FIFA’s global “FIFA Arena” project.

Located at Kagarama Secondary School in Kicukiro District, the pitch was officially inaugurated on March 30, 2026, marking the beginning of a broader initiative that will see 10 such facilities constructed across the country.

The project was initially launched in May 2025 by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, with an ambitious goal of installing 1,000 mini-pitches worldwide by 2031. Rwanda is among the beneficiary nations, with a commitment to receive 10 pitches aimed at nurturing young football talent.

The inauguration ceremony brought together key stakeholders in football and government, including Hon. Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström, FERWAFA President Fabrice Shema, and Stéphane Le Brech, Chargé d’Affaires at the French Embassy in Rwanda.

Speaking during the event, Hon. Minister Nelly Mukazayire expressed gratitude to FIFA for its continued support toward football development in Rwanda, particularly at the grassroots level.

“This demonstrates the strong partnership between Rwanda and FIFA. We appreciate the support we continue to receive through various projects. It speaks volumes about the opportunities being created for young Rwandans, their visions, their dreams, and what they aspire to become in the future,” she said.

FERWAFA President Fabrice Shema also welcomed the initiative, emphasizing its importance in expanding access to football infrastructure across the country.

“We thank FIFA President Gianni Infantino for this initiative. It is now time for young Rwandan talents to develop across different parts of the country. We express our sincere appreciation for this project,” he noted.

The Kagarama mini-pitch is the first of 10 planned across Rwanda. The remaining facilities are set to be constructed in the following locations:

• St Joseph (Muhanga) 

• TTC Save (Gisagara) 

• GSOB (Huye) 

• GS Kabare (Ngoma) 

• ES Nyamirama and IPM Mukarange (Kayonza) 

• College Inyemeramihigo (Rubavu) 

• College SINA Gerard (Rulindo) 

• Lycée de Kigali (Nyarugenge)