FERWAFA approves major reforms to strengthen Rwandan Football ahead of new season

The Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has approved a series of significant reforms aimed at strengthening football governance, promoting integrity, and modernizing the country’s football landscape ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The decisions were reached during an ordinary meeting of the FERWAFA Executive Committee held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, where members adopted new administrative and regulatory measures expected to shape the future of football in Rwanda over the coming years.

Among the key resolutions was the approval of revised registration fees for clubs participating in FERWAFA competitions during the 2026-27 and 2027-28 seasons.

The federation maintained the registration fee for clubs competing in the BK Pro League at Rwf2 million, while clubs in the Men’s Second Division, Men’s Third Division and Women's Super League will each pay Rwf500,000 to register for the new campaign.

FERWAFA also confirmed participation fees for clubs in the Women’s Championship, Women’s Regional League, as well as teams competing in both the Men's and Women’s Peace Cup tournaments.

The federation said the revised fee structure is intended to ensure smooth organization of competitions while supporting improved administration across all levels of Rwandan football.

One of the most notable reforms approved by the Executive Committee is the introduction of a comprehensive anti-doping programme.

Starting with the 2026-27 season, all players participating in competitions organized by FERWAFA will be subject to random, unannounced doping tests.

The testing programme will not be limited to match days.

Players may also be tested during training sessions or even away from their clubs, including at their homes, in line with internationally recognized anti-doping regulations.

The move is designed to deter the use of prohibited substances, protect athletes’ health and reinforce fair competition across all domestic competitions.

The federation believes the new policy represents an important step towards aligning Rwandan football with international standards established by FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Beyond competition regulations, FERWAFA also announced plans to undertake a complete rebranding of its visual identity.

The project will involve the redesign of the federation’s official logo, logos for its various competitions, championship trophies and the kits worn by Rwanda's national football teams.

Rather than commissioning the designs directly, FERWAFA intends to launch a nationwide competition inviting Rwandan artists, designers and creative professionals to submit proposals.

The federation hopes the initiative will promote local talent while creating a modern identity that reflects the country’s football ambitions and national pride.

The latest reforms underline FERWAFA’s determination to improve governance, enhance transparency and professionalism, and strengthen the credibility of football administration in Rwanda.

Photos

Fabrice Shema Ngoga, Rwanda Football Federation President

Joseph Morris Vincent