FERWABA lifts suspension on APR duo ‘Ntore Habimana and Mpoyo Axel’

The Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) has officially lifted the disciplinary suspension imposed on APR Basketball Club players Ntore Habimana and Mpoyo Axel Olenga, bringing an end to a dispute that had raised questions about player commitment to national team duties ahead of Rwanda’s upcoming international assignments.

In a press release issued on Thursday, July 9, 2026, FERWABA announced that the decision followed the receipt and consideration of formal letters of apology submitted by APR Basketball Club, the two players, and constructive discussions held between federation officials and APR representatives on July 8.

According to the federation, the suspensions were lifted with immediate effect after both players acknowledged the circumstances that led to the disciplinary action and reaffirmed their commitment to representing Rwanda whenever called upon for national team duty.

“The Rwanda Basketball Federation has resolved to accept the apologies and lift, with immediate effect, the disciplinary suspension previously imposed on Mr. Ntore Habimana and Mr. Mpoyo Axel Olenga”, the federation said in its statement.

FERWABA explained that the decision was also influenced by corrective measures implemented by APR Basketball Club, which demonstrated the club’s willingness to work closely with the federation in ensuring similar incidents do not recur.

The federation further noted that both players had renewed their commitment to honour national team call-ups and faithfully discharge their responsibilities whenever selected.

The suspension stemmed from an earlier disciplinary process related to issues surrounding national team obligations, although FERWABA did not provide further details in its latest statement.

The matter had attracted considerable attention within Rwanda’s basketball community, with many stakeholders calling for dialogue between the federation and the country’s most successful basketball club.

By lifting the sanctions, FERWABA has cleared the way for Ntore and Olenga to become eligible once again for selection to Rwanda’s senior men’s national basketball team, subject to technical decisions by the coaching staff.

The development comes at an important time for Rwandan basketball as preparations continue for upcoming regional and continental competitions.

With qualification campaigns and international tournaments on the horizon, the return of experienced players is expected to strengthen the national team's depth and competitiveness.

FERWABA emphasized that while reconciliation had been achieved, representing Rwanda remains a privilege that carries significant responsibilities.

The federation reiterated that discipline, patriotism and commitment to national service are non-negotiable values expected from every player selected to wear the national colours.

“Representing Rwanda is a privilege that demands patriotism, discipline and an unwavering commitment to place national interest above all else”, the federation stressed.

The resolution is expected to ease tensions between FERWABA and APR Basketball Club while allowing both parties to refocus on the development of Rwandan basketball.

It also sends a message that although disciplinary standards will continue to be enforced, the federation remains open to dialogue, accountability and reconciliation when genuine efforts are made to resolve disputes.

For Rwanda’s basketball fraternity, the lifting of the suspensions represents a positive step toward unity as the country prepares for future international competitions, with FERWABA and its clubs now expected to work together in pursuit of success on the regional and continental stage.