The stage is set for the grand finale of the Gicanda Invitational 2025, Rwanda’s largest grassroots girls’ football festival, taking place this Saturday at the Kigali Pele Stadium.
After four weeks of district-level competition, 25 winning teams from across the country will converge in Kigali to compete for the national title of Rwanda’s best U15 girls’ football team.
The tournament began with over 58 grassroots football centres across 26 districts, engaging more than 1,200 young players.
Each of the 25 teams earned their place in the final by winning their district tournament, receiving 50,000 RWF and full support for transport and meals.
At the national final, they will compete for a grand prize of 250,000 RWF, a championship trophy, and the prestigious national crown. In addition, the best overall player will be awarded a special trophy and a four-year fully funded scholarship to a leading school in Rwanda.
“This tournament is about everything good in football: community, joy, excellence,” said Nikita Gicanda, founder of Local Champions Africa and producer of the Invitational.
“When we invest in girls — whether they’re playing or returning as leaders and sport managers — we invest in the future of Rwanda’s economy, education, and national pride.”
The Gicanda Invitational is produced by Nikita Gicanda, MXS Creative, and Cornwine Studios, with endorsement from the Ministry of Sports and in partnership with FERWAFA under a formal agreement to strengthen women’s football in Rwanda.
This year’s edition is supported by Inyange Industries, Zaria Court, Legacy Clinics, Goodlife Access, Isun, Kawa Coffee, FitnessPoint, Activ8, and Tuza Wellness, alongside hundreds of coaches, volunteers, and local organisers who have worked across 26 districts to make the tournament possible.
To celebrate the achievements of Rwanda’s young champions and raise public affection for girls’ sports, the final will also feature special performances by leading Rwandan artists Kivumbi King, Deejay Pius, Alyn Sano, and Ariel Wayz.
Their involvement showcases how music, culture, and sport can come together to inspire a new generation and elevate women’s football in Rwanda.
The final will be held on Saturday, August 30, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Kigali Pele Stadium. Entry is free and open to the public.
Local Champions Africa, the women-led organisation behind the tournament, continues to drive opportunities for girls and women in sport by combining football training with leadership development, education, and life skills, positioning young Rwandan players to succeed both on and off the pitch.
