Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire has urged Rwanda’s under-17 national team to maintain their determination after securing a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, ending a 15-year wait for a return to the continental tournament.
Mukazayire congratulated the team after Rwanda defeated Ethiopia 2-1 to finish third at the CECAFA U-17 Championship at Kigali Pele Stadium on Monday, October 19, 2026.
She praised the players for fighting until the final whistle and encouraged them to keep working towards further success.
“The journey continues. Thank you very much, Amavubi U-17. Well done, children of Rwanda. No turning back; the goal is to keep pushing until the end. You are capable, and we are behind you,” she said.
Shema Jayden and Isaac Ndizeye scored Rwanda’s goals against Ethiopia, securing the victory that confirmed the team’s qualification for the 2027 Africa U-17 Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The achievement marks Rwanda’s return to the continental competition for the first time since 2011.
The team’s focus will now shift towards preparing for the tournament, where they will compete against other qualified national sides.
Mukazayire’s message comes as the young players prepare for a bigger test on the continental stage, following their performance at the regional championship.
