Malkia Strikers Of Kenya Silence Neighbours Uganda.

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August 18, 2023

Kenya’s Malkia Strikers end Uganda’s unbeaten run, extending their own to three games.

The Malkia Strikers continued their Women’s African Nations Championship campaign with another 3-0 victory over neighbours the Lady Volleyball Cranes. The Kenyans have yet to lose a set, producing a similar 3-0 result against Rwanda and Burkina Faso.

Uganda, who beat Morocco yesterday, got off to a strong start to the season, but Lady Volleyball Cranes have learned that Kenya is a different team.

“This arena isn’t the best so we have some issues with the lighting on the other side of the field. We would like to have more time to train and adjust as the spots assigned to us are difficult for us,”

“It’s good for us to face such challenges in games because it tests our mental strength. It’s great to see how they adapt and play according to our plan,” explained Luizomar.

“Yesterday we watched them against Morocco and collected data to analyse them. We are happy the team responded well and it was a good performance overall,” noted Luizomar.

Malkia Strikers currently have nine points from three games and will face Morocco at 6:00 PM EAT on Friday.

Uganda will return to action on Saturday afternoon in its clash with Rwanda.

Vihiga and JKT Face Off to Determine Table Topper in Group B.

By

Kenneth Lwanga

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August 18, 2023

Following their victory on Wednesday, Vihiga Queens FC from Kenya and JKT Queens from Tanzania have advanced to the semifinals of the current CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.

Against New Generation, Esther Mabanza’s goal in the 56th minute was the deciding factor. JKT defended resolutely to earn all three points despite the former’s increased efforts to influence the game.

Vihiga Queens defeated AS Kigali of Rwanda when Bertha Omita scored the game-winning goal in the 36th minute. Vihiga Queens FC leads Group B on goal differential but is tied with JKT Queens FC at 6 points.

On Saturday, the two will square off to see who reigns supreme in Group B.

As of right now, neither AS Kigali FC nor New Generation FC have a point. Their matchup on the last matchday will decide which team finishes third and fourth in Group B.

UPL 2023/2024 Season Fixture Released

By

Kenneth Lwanga

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August 18, 2023

The Uganda Premier League, UPL administration has released the schedule for the 2023/24 season.

On Matchday 1, Vipers SC will face Gaddafi FC away from home, while KCCA will host Express, with both games perhaps postponed due to CAF Inter-club competitions.

In contrast to past seasons, the UPL administration has announced entire season schedules for both the first and second rounds this time.

Download Full Fixtures Here UPL_Season Fixtures_2023-24-3

In the first broadcast game of the 2023/2024 season, Sports Club Villa, a record 16-time champion, will welcome Kitara back to the top-flight soccer on Friday, September 15, at Wankulukuku.

Match Day 1 fixtures

Friday 15th September

SC Villa vs Kitara – Wankulukuku, 4 PM

Mbarara City vs NEC – Bombo, 2 PM

Soltilo Bright Stars vs BUL FC – Kavumba, 4 PM

UPDF FC vs URA FC – Bombo, 4 PM

Sunday 17th September

Arua Hill vs Busoga United – Kavumba, 2 PM

Wakiso Giants vs Maroons – Wakiso – 4 PM

Lady Volleyball Cranes Will Face a Challenge in Kenya’s Malkia Strikers.

By

Kenneth Lwanga

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August 18, 2023

The Lady Volleyball Cranes of Uganda Volleyball have so far won two matches at the current CAVB Women’s African Nations Championship in Yaounde, Cameroon.

The second victory came as a surprise against a harder opponent in Morocco. The Lady Volleyball Cranes celebrated a great victory in the tiebreaker match. Morocco 3 Uganda 2. (25-15, 26-28, 17-25, 25-16, 15-11)

Earlier on, Uganda beat Lesotho in straight sets to gain confidence, which likely set the tone for match 2 versus Morocco.

Uganda, on the other hand, will now compete in the East African rivalry against Kenya’s Malkia Strikers. Kenya, like Uganda, has enjoyed a strong start to the campaign with two wins. The derby happens today at 1 PM.

The stakes are high for Uganda today as they play nine-time African champions and neighbours Kenya.

Despite the difficult opponent, head coach Tony Lakony is optimistic about the Lady Volleyball Cranes’ chances.

Group B
Uganda, Kenya, Morocco, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, and Lesotho.

Group A
Cameroon, Nigeria, Burundi, Mali, Algeria, and Egypt

In other games of matchday 2

Mali 0-3 Egypt
Lesotho 0-3 Rwanda
Burkina Faso 0-3 Kenya
Burundi 0-3 Algeria
Cameroon 3-0 Nigeria

The Stage is set for 2023 BetPawa Playoffs, featuring several novelties.

By

Evode Munyeshuri

-

August 17, 2023

The stage is set for an intense playoff battle when the 2023 BetPawa playoffs tip off on August 23, equipped with new locker room bonuses to keep up the stakes of one of the league’s most exciting regular seasons.

Prior to the postseason games, the Rwanda Basketball League is strengthened with a new partner, seizing the name rights and investing directly in the athletes and other beneficiaries of the game.

Two months ago, The Rwanda Basketball Federation announced a three-year postseason sponsorship deal with BetPawa as the Rwanda Basketball Leagues’ headline sponsor, covering the 3*3 games as well.

According to Ntoudi Mouyelo, the managing director of Mchezo, a company that owns betPawa, he is eager to reiterate their commitment to investing in sports in Rwanda and ensuring that the athletes are giving their all on the court.

But, first and foremost, why Basketball?

“Basketball may not be far off as the sport with the largest number of fans in Rwanda right now. But Basketball is one of Rwanda’s fastest-growing sports. And we believe the federation is one of, if not the, most effective organized sports federation in Rwanda.” Declared Mr Ntoudi Mouyelo

He continued; “Our plan is to recognize a good competition in Rwanda, our plan is to give more to those who are making the story. So, we decided it in the agreement with the Federation to put in place a few initiatives that we believe will take the league to the next level”

“The first initiative is to provide more to the players; for instance, if a team wins a game, they will receive a special bonus, and the key for us is to ensure that the players receive bonuses while they are still sweating. it is known as the locker room bonus.” Said the managing director

The prevailing team will get locker room incentives, with each player receiving 50,000 Rwandan Francs via mobile money immediately upon the game’s completion.

Everyone will gain from this collaboration , not just the athletes. Those who attend the games will have a chance to win a significant prize in the end. The great incentive for supporters will be an opportunity to watch whatever game they want, anytime they want, anywhere they want, but on the condition that they first come and support their local club.

The Rwanda Basketball Federation’s Vice President, Richard Nyirishema, is commended for announcing that this season’s playoffs would begin with a fresh look, logo, and name as an outcome of the federation’s successful engagement with their new partner BetPawa.

“We are launching off this year’s postseason with an all-new logo and brand as a result of our effective partnership with BetPawa.”

“This year’s regular season was noteworthy owing to the manner in the teams in all categories have upped the level, we doubt that the endurance will be the same in these playoffs, in addition to the novelties provided by the partner.”

On the court, four top teams in each category –Men and Women –will face off to determine the champion of 2023.

The action begins in the semifinals, where the top four teams from both the men’s and women’s categories compete in best of five series, with the team that wins three games first advancing to the finals, which will be contested in best-of-seven series.

The Rwanda Energy Group teams will be out to defend their Rwanda Basketball League crowns as the playoffs get underway. In the best-of-5 Series, the reigning champions will take on Espoir BBC and IPRC Huye in men’s and women’s categories respectively.

Individual awards for the outstanding regular season performers will be acknowledged by the Federation, while BetPawa will honour the best postseason players, as stated by Mr Nyirishema.

The league champion is determined via the playoffs. The champion in the men’s category will be the flag-bearer in 2024 BAL, while the champion in the women’s category represents Rwanda in the Zone V competition.

Here are the matchups in the playoffs – Quarterfinals

Women

REG Women BBC vs RP-IPRC Huye

APR WBBC vs The Hoops Rwanda

Men

Patriots vs APR BBC

REG BBC vs Espoir BBC

The first games are set for Wednesday, August 23, with the men’s games taking place at BK Arena and the women’s at LDK Gymnasium.

The Lady Volleyball Cranes Team Made a Strong Serve-off to The Africa Championship.

By

Kenneth Lwanga

-

August 16, 2023

The Volleyball CranesUganda, making its first appearance at the continental championship since 2019, defeated Lesotho in straight sets to start off Group B.

At the Nfandena facility in Yaounde, the Volleyball Cranes settled in quickly and won the first set 25-10, the second set 25-05, and finished the match with a 25-10 victory in the third set.

The victory boosted the Lady Volleyball Cranes‘ confidence after a long absence from competitive volleyball, and head coach Tonny Lakony was pleased with the team’s outstanding performance.

“Winning our first group stage game is a big step forward. The opponent did not appear as predicted, maybe due to the degree of pressure we applied on them,” stated the head coach.

In Group B, Uganda is grouped alongside Kenya, Morocco, Rwanda, Burkina Faso, and Lesotho. Cameroon, Nigeria, Burundi, Mali, Algeria, and Egypt are in Group A and The top two teams from the six-team groups will advance to the semifinals.

In other games of matchday 1

Morocco 3-0 Burkina Faso
Nigeria 3-0 Mali
Kenya 3-0 Rwanda
Cameroon 3-0 Algeria

Uganda will face a more dominant Morocco side today at 4 PM.

Rayon Sports drew Al Merrikh SC in a friendly.

By

Evode Munyeshuri

-

August 15, 2023

Nzinga — Rayon Sports and Al Merrikh played out a goalless draw | Photo: Rayon Sports

***Rayon Sports* wrapped up their pre-season campaign with a goalless draw against Sudanese side AL Merrikh on Tuesday *afternoon.***

In an average dispute marked by squad rotation on both sides, Rayon Sports and AL Merrikh shared spoils in a goalless draw match contested at Skol Training Center in Nzove.

Three days after smashing their rivals APR FC in the Super Cup, the Blues concluded the pre-season friendly matches on a sour note with another draw, making it four pre-season games with no victory.

A 2-2 draw against Burundians Vital’O, a 1-1 draw against Rwanda Premier League side Gorilla FC, a 0-1 loss against Kenyan Police, and now a goalless draw against Sudanese Al Merrikh reveals a relatively low yield, However, no fan will ever remember it considering they beat their archrivals in what really matters.

A draw to Al Merrikh marked the end of Gikundiro’s preseason campaign, and now it’s time to get down to business. Yamen Zelfani brings his side to Gasogi on Friday, as the blues face KNC’s team at Kigali Pelé Stadium in what will likely be an explosive opening challenge for both teams.

Al Merrikh carried out their pre-season tour in Rwanda and are set to remain there owing to security concerns in their home country. As a result, they were granted permission to host the CAF Champions League matches in the country of a thousand hills.

On August 25, Al Merrikh will host Otôho d’Oyo at Huye International Stadium.

Giants of Africa Unveiled Two Basketball Courts in Rwamagana

By

Evode Munyeshuri

-

August 13, 2023

On August 13, Giants of Africa, an entity entirely devoted to enhancing the lives of African youth through basketball, and its co-founder Masai Ujiri, unveiled two modern Basketball courts at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village in Rwamagana district.

Giants of Africa, the Ministry of Sports, sponsors, and donors gathered together on the occasion of GOA’s 20th-anniversary festivities, which are currently taking place in Rwanda, to formally cut the ribbon and open the first basketball courts constructed by Giants of Africa in Rwanda but outside the Kigali City.

For more than two decades, Masai Ujiri’s GOA has been contributing not only to building courts but also inspiring the youth to dream big. Ange Vanessa Tumusiime, a senior 4 student at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village, was initially sceptical since she has short-sightedness in her eyes. However, through basketball, she is very optimistic, and aims high both on and off the court.

“Growing up, most people doubted my ability to perform tasks and do anything. I joined basketball and told myself that no matter what people say about my eyes, my abilities, I was going to do what’s right for me.” Said Tumusiime

She added; “Basketball to me has been a place where my strengths and abilities are reaffirmed, where despite having eye issues, people believe in me and see me beyond any vulnerability both on the court and off the court. I was able to prove myself to people that surrounded me the power of belief and the pursuit of a passion. And, I dare to dream of representing my country on the national team and beyond.”

On the side of sponsors, Sarah Feinstein expressed her heartfelt appreciation to everyone who contributed to making the vision a reality.

“We want to extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has played a role in bringing this vision to life, from the founders and staff at ASYV to Masai, Melanie, the entire Giants of Africa team, and the dedicated individuals who have worked tirelessly to make these courts a reality. And may these courts resound with laughter, determination and share dreams of all who find their way here.”

Speaking to Masai Ujiri, The President of Toronto Raptors and Co-founder of GOA, He expressed his delight at what they had accomplished in 20 years but said that for him, the following 20 years will be a challenge rather than a celebration.

He said; “This makes all of us happy. If I imagine what the last 20 years have been, I’m inspired to see what the next 20 is going to be. It’s going to be incredible.”

“I’m looking forward to the next 20 years. You know, like I don’t want to celebrate much but I understand, you know like what the significance is.”

The Rwandan government was represented by Madam Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju, Minister of Sports, who truly praised the GOA’s commitment to offering a platform for young aspiring players to become giants through their devotion.

Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju

“We are celebrating the achievement that will shape the future of our youth. This court symbolizes more than just a place to play basketball. it represents a space of inspiration, where talents are groomed into the fulfilment of dreams. Our gratitude is extended to Giants of Africa, who, through their dedication, have provided a platform for our young athletes to dream and become giants.” Said Minister Munyangaju

Giants of Africa has built a total of 28 courts in Rwanda, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Senegal as part of the ‘Built Within’ initiative, a multi-year commitment to build 100 basketball courts across the continent. Another court will be launched this week in Kimisagara, Kigali City.

PHOTOS: Cyril NDEGEYA

Bbaale and Ojera on target as Rayon Sports thrash APR FC to lift the Super Cup

By

Evode Munyeshuri

-

August 12, 2023

Rayon Sports demolished APR FC 3-0 to claim the 2023 Super Cup. Ugandan Forwards Joachiam Ojera and Charles Bbale, as well as the new recruit Rachid Kalisa, were on target.

On Saturday, August 12, the 2023 Rwanda’s Super Cup match between league champions APR FC and peace cup winners Rayon Sports took place in front of a crowded Kigali Pelé Stadium. Rayon Sports prevailed

Heritier Luvumbu’s free-kick was brilliantly dealt with by Charles Bbale, who headed it into the back of the net to give the Blues an early lead in the sixth minute.

Both sides played poorly till the end of the first half.

Yamen Zelfani, Rayon Sports’ new head coach, made some changes in the second half, with Didier Mucyo replacing Ally Serumogo at the right back, Emmanuel Mvuyekure and Hadji Iraguha replacing Roger Kanamugire and Youssef Rharb, respectively, in midfield.

They began to deploy counterattacks from that point on, giving them the opportunity to score two goals in the in last minutes of the match.

Former URA winger Joachiam Ojera was fouled twice in the box, and referee Samuel Uwikunda didn’t hesitate to call them. Rachid Kalisa converted the first one with ease, and Ojera scored the second one to make it 3-0.

It is a game that attracted a large number of supporters at KPS, owing to the teams’ new signings.

The Super Cup marks the beginning of a football season and is usually held a week prior to the league

The Rwanda Premier League kickoffs are next week.

Arua Hill And Busoga Will Feature In The 2023/2024 UPL Fixture

By

Kenneth Lwanga

-

August 12, 2023

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) granted pardons to Arua Hill SC and Busoga United FC and instructed the Uganda Premier League administration to include the two teams in the 2023/24 schedule.

After failing to meet the minimal conditions for a club license, FUFA ordered the UPL to remove the two clubs from next season’s schedules.

Arua Hill was unable to show that the club’s CEO is a signatory of the club account, and Busoga United was unable to show that they had a physical office address, a qualified assistant coach, or audited financial statements.

Arua Hill also failed to show that the players’ and coaches’ salaries were paid every three months.

The Arua Hill and Busoga CEOs received separate letters from the FUFA Club Licensing Committee (First Instance Body), dated August 11, 2023, informing them of the pardon.

“The FUFA club licensing committee has set aside the decision of the FIB and pardoned Busoga United on condition that the management and administration of the club undergo mentorship programs organized by FUFA at the cost of the club,” the statement reads.

Malkia Strikers Of Kenya Silence Neighbours Uganda.

Kenya’s Malkia Strikers end Uganda’s unbeaten run, extending their own to three games.

Vihiga and JKT Face Off to Determine Table Topper in Group B.

Following their victory on Wednesday, Vihiga Queens FC from Kenya and JKT Queens from Tanzania have advanced to the semifinals of the current CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.

UPL 2023/2024 Season Fixture Released

The Uganda Premier League, UPL administration has released the schedule for the 2023/24 season.

Lady Volleyball Cranes Will Face a Challenge in Kenya’s Malkia Strikers.

The Lady Volleyball Cranes of Uganda Volleyball have so far won two matches at the current CAVB Women’s African Nations Championship in Yaounde, Cameroon.

The Stage is set for 2023 BetPawa Playoffs, featuring several novelties.

The stage is set for an intense playoff battle when the 2023 BetPawa playoffs tip off on August 23, equipped with new locker room bonuses to keep up the stakes of one of the league’s most exciting regular seasons.

The Lady Volleyball Cranes Team Made a Strong Serve-off to The Africa Championship.

The Volleyball CranesUganda, making its first appearance at the continental championship since 2019, defeated Lesotho in straight sets to start off Group B.

Rayon Sports drew Al Merrikh SC in a friendly.

***Rayon Sports* wrapped up their pre-season campaign with a goalless draw against Sudanese side AL Merrikh on Tuesday *afternoon.***

Giants of Africa Unveiled Two Basketball Courts in Rwamagana

On August 13, Giants of Africa, an entity entirely devoted to enhancing the lives of African youth through basketball, and its co-founder Masai Ujiri, unveiled two modern Basketball courts at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village in Rwamagana district.

Bbaale and Ojera on target as Rayon Sports thrash APR FC to lift the Super Cup

Rayon Sports demolished APR FC 3-0 to claim the 2023 Super Cup. Ugandan Forwards Joachiam Ojera and Charles Bbale, as well as the new recruit Rachid Kalisa, were on target.

Arua Hill And Busoga Will Feature In The 2023/2024 UPL Fixture

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) granted pardons to Arua Hill SC and Busoga United FC and instructed the Uganda Premier League administration to include the two teams in the 2023/24 schedule.

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Kenya’s Malkia Strikers end Uganda’s unbeaten run, extending their own to three games.

Following their victory on Wednesday, Vihiga Queens FC from Kenya and JKT Queens from Tanzania have advanced to the semifinals of the current CAF Women’s Champions League CECAFA Zonal Qualifiers.

The Uganda Premier League, UPL administration has released the schedule for the 2023/24 season.

The Lady Volleyball Cranes of Uganda Volleyball have so far won two matches at the current CAVB Women’s African Nations Championship in Yaounde, Cameroon.

The stage is set for an intense playoff battle when the 2023 BetPawa playoffs tip off on August 23, equipped with new locker room bonuses to keep up the stakes of one of the league’s most exciting regular seasons.

The Volleyball CranesUganda, making its first appearance at the continental championship since 2019, defeated Lesotho in straight sets to start off Group B.

Rayon Sports wrapped up their pre-season campaign with a goalless draw against Sudanese side AL Merrikh on Tuesday afternoon.

On August 13, Giants of Africa, an entity entirely devoted to enhancing the lives of African youth through basketball, and its co-founder Masai Ujiri, unveiled two modern Basketball courts at Agahozo Shalom Youth Village in Rwamagana district.

Rayon Sports demolished APR FC 3-0 to claim the 2023 Super Cup. Ugandan Forwards Joachiam Ojera and Charles Bbale, as well as the new recruit Rachid Kalisa, were on target.

The Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) granted pardons to Arua Hill SC and Busoga United FC and instructed the Uganda Premier League administration to include the two teams in the 2023/24 schedule.

ABOUT US

FOLLOW US

***Rayon Sports* wrapped up their pre-season campaign with a goalless draw against Sudanese side AL Merrikh on Tuesday *afternoon.***