Bugesera hosts thrilling national finals of the 2026 Umurenge Kagame Cup (Photos)

Bugesera District is hosting the national finals of the 2026 Umurenge Kagame Cup (UKC 2026), one of Rwanda’s most prestigious grassroots sporting competitions that brings together champions from across the country. 

The tournament, which has been named Kagame Cup since 2010, is being played for the 20th time since its inception in 2006.

The opening day of competition delivered exciting contests across several disciplines, with athletes and teams battling for medals and places in the championship finals scheduled for Sunday.

In women’s volleyball, Rusizi secured the bronze medal after defeating Musanze 3-1 in sets.

Rusizi won the first two sets 25-19 and 25-21 before Musanze fought back to take the third set 25-18. 

However, Rusizi regained control to claim the fourth set 25-19 and seal victory.

Attention now turns to the championship match, where Ngoma and Gicumbi will face off for the gold medal.

The men’s volleyball competition also produced intense action, with Kicukiro and Gasabo booking their places in Sunday’s final.

The two districts will compete for the national title after impressive performances throughout the tournament.

In women’s basketball, Kicukiro claimed the bronze medal in dominant fashion, defeating Nyamasheke 71-40.

The victory highlighted Kicukiro’s strength and consistency, allowing them to finish the tournament on a positive note despite missing out on the final.

The men’s basketball title will be decided on Sunday when Kamonyi and Kicukiro meet in what promises to be a highly competitive championship encounter.

Both teams have impressed throughout the competition and will be aiming to finish their campaigns as national champions.

Football fans were also treated to exciting matches.

In the men’s category, Rubengera secured the bronze medal after a convincing 2-0 victory over Mbazi, while in the women’s, Gatore claimed third place with an emphatic 3-0 win against Mbongo.

Cycling events showcased some of the country’s most promising riders.

In the women’s race, Kigali’s Nishimwe Gisele captured the gold medal, while Rose Maniranzi of host district Bugesera earned silver and Umuhoza Nadia from Nyagatare took bronze.

In the men’s race, Mfiteyezu Emmanuel from the Northern Province won gold, ahead of Iyamuremye from the Southern Province, who finished second, while Uwitonze Isdore from the Eastern Province claimed bronze.

As the tournament heads into its final day, the event once again demonstrates the importance of sport in promoting talent development, unity, and healthy competition across Rwanda’s communities.