Zimbabwe HPC edge Rwanda by one run to win Kwibuka Women’s T20I title (Photos)

The 2026 Kwibuka Women’s T20I Tournament came to a dramatic conclusion at Gahanga Cricket Stadium, with Zimbabwe HPC defeating hosts Rwanda by a single run in a thrilling final to lift the championship trophy.

Held annually in remembrance of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the tournament once again brought together emerging and established women’s cricket teams from across the world, showcasing both sporting excellence and the enduring spirit of remembrance and unity.

After winning the toss, Zimbabwe HPC elected to bat first and posted a competitive total of 126/5 in their allotted 20 overs.

Rwanda’s bowling unit delivered a disciplined performance, claiming five wickets and restricting Zimbabwe from building a larger score despite several important partnerships throughout the innings.

Chasing 127 for victory, Rwanda endured a difficult start during the powerplay, managing just 19 runs while losing three early wickets.

Zimbabwe’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure, and by the halfway stage of the innings, six Rwandan batters had already been dismissed, leaving the hosts facing a daunting challenge.

However, Rwanda responded with remarkable determination.

Led by an outstanding innings from Henriette Ishimwe, the hosts gradually fought their way back into contention.

With the match hanging in the balance until the very last delivery, Rwanda required three runs from the final ball to complete a memorable victory.

In a heartbreaking finish for the home supporters, Rwanda managed only two runs, ending their innings on 125/8 from 20 overs.

Zimbabwe HPC secured the title by the narrowest of margins, claiming a memorable one-run victory in one of the most dramatic finals in the tournament’s history.

Despite the defeat, Rwanda’s campaign was widely praised as one of the nation’s strongest performances in the competition.

The runners-up finish reflects the continued growth of women’s cricket in Rwanda and the progress achieved by the national team on the international stage.

Earlier in the day, Nigeria claimed third place after defeating Brazil by three wickets in the playoff match.

Nigeria’s strong all-round performances throughout the tournament earned them a deserved place on the podium, while Brazil also received widespread praise for their competitive displays.

The tournament also featured several memorable individual achievements.

Rwanda captain Gisele Ishimwe surpassed the milestone of 2,000 Women’s T20 International runs, reaching 2,026 runs in 117 WT20I matches and further cementing her place among Africa’s leading batters.

Meanwhile, Brazil captain Roberta Moretti brought the curtain down on an outstanding international career, playing the final match of her career in Rwanda.

Moretti leaves a lasting legacy as one of the pioneers of women’s cricket in Brazil and South America.

At the post-tournament awards ceremony, Rwanda’s Henriette Ishimwe was named Player of the Tournament after a series of exceptional performances.

Zimbabwe’s Nyansa Gwanzura received the Best Batter award, while Nigeria’s Christabel Chukwuonye was named Best Bowler.

Nigeria’s Sarah Ekwere Etim completed the list of award winners after being recognized as the tournament’s Best Fielder.

Speaking after the final, Rwanda Cricket Association Women’s Development Officer Claudine Uwase praised the national team’s efforts.

“We are proud of what the team achieved throughout the tournament. Our ambition was to win the title, and although we fell just short, the players demonstrated outstanding character, resilience and quality”, she said

We congratulate Zimbabwe HPC on their success and thank all participating teams, officials, volunteers and partners who contributed to another successful edition of the Kwibuka Women’s T20I Tournament”, she added

Uwase also extended her best wishes to Rwanda captain Gisele Ishimwe as she prepares for a new cricket opportunity in England, encouraging her to maximize the experience and continue inspiring the next generation of Rwandan cricketers.

Featuring teams from five countries—Rwanda, Malawi, Nigeria, Brazil and Zimbabwe HPC—the 12th edition of the Kwibuka Women’s T20I Tournament once again highlighted the power of cricket to unite communities, honour remembrance, and promote the continued development of women’s cricket around the world.

Photos

Zimbabwe HPC crowned champions after a thrilling 1-run victory over Rwanda 

Nigeria claimed third place after defeating Brazil by three wickets

Rwanda women’s national team finishes the tournament as runners-up

Claudine Uwase, praised the national team’s efforts