The FERWABA General Assembly convened on Saturday, November 16, and officially confirmed that the Rwanda Basketball League (RBL) will commence on January 24, 2025.
The General Assembly of Basketball in Rwanda gathered on Saturday at the Park Inn hotel to review the activities of 2024 and plan for the year ahead.
The meeting also saw the admission of new members, including Kigali Elite, the Christian Basketball Team, and the Azomco Women Basketball Club.
The assembly confirmed that the regular basketball competitions will proceed as scheduled in the calendar for the season, with no significant changes to the rules, especially concerning player eligibility.
The age limit in the Second Division has been lifted, making it open to all players. Additionally, a new competition for players under 21 will be introduced.
Meanwhile, the Rwanda Cup will be held for the second time, with top-tier teams allowed to field players from their Second Division-affiliated teams to offer them more playing opportunities.
Another key decision from the meeting was setting the date for the election of a new committee on December 21, 2024. Désiré Mugwiza, who has led the federation for 12 years, will be eligible to continue in his role after the assembly removed the term limit.
At the conclusion of the General Assembly, the press interviewed FERWABA President Mr. Désiré Mugwiza, who also chaired the meeting, about the progress of transforming the Rwanda Basketball League into a professional league, as outlined in a key resolution from the previous year’s assembly.
“We discussed the matter, but there are still aspects that need improvement. We’ve agreed to organize a retreat before the league begins to find better ways to structure the championship. However, the RBL will not be a fully professional league for the upcoming season.” Said FERWABA President.
The Rwanda Basketball League will begin on January 24, with 10 men’s teams, including newly promoted Azomco and Flames, who will replace the relegated Inspired Generations and Titans.
Azomco Women Basketball Club will compete in the women’s category for the first time, with the league expected to feature 11 teams.
