Mbonwa to host Alfa Kagugu’s 2026 Youth Rugby Festival

Alfa Kagugu RFC is set to host the Rugby Youth Festival 2026 at Mbonwa Grounds, bringing together young rugby talents for a vibrant day of competition, development, and community engagement.

Scheduled this Saturday from 08:00 to 12:30, the festival will feature exciting 7s matches alongside tag rugby games, showcasing the continued growth of T1 Rugby at both youth and adult levels in Rwanda.

The festival aims to provide a platform for young players to showcase their abilities, build friendships, and embrace the core values of rugby, including teamwork, discipline, and respect.

With participation from multiple teams across various age categories, the event reflects the increasing popularity and structured development of grassroots rugby nationwide.

In the U15 boys’ competition, teams will compete across three groups, featuring sides such as 1000 Hills, Alfa Kagugu A and B, Jabana A and B, Ndela Hills, Nduba, Kayonza, Ruhetse, and Gishaka.

The U18 girls’ category will include two groups with teams such as Jabana, Ndela Hills, 1000 Hills, Nduba, Gishaka, Ruhetse, and Kayonza battling for top honors.

Matches will be played in a 7s format, each lasting 14 minutes with a short break, ensuring a fast-paced and engaging experience across two pitches.

The group stages will take place throughout the morning, followed by semi-finals at 11:00 for girls and 11:15 for boys.

The finals will then determine the champions before the closing ceremony and awards presentation at 12:30.

In addition to the 7s tournament, the festival will also feature tag rugby matches, further promoting inclusivity and skill development.

Participating teams include Golden River Academy, Kinyinya, Rwamagana Hippos, and several 1000 Hills sides, competing in a structured format leading to semi-finals and a final.

Beyond the competition, the Rugby Youth Festival represents a significant initiative in promoting T1 Rugby as a tool for youth empowerment and community building.

By bringing together players, coaches, and supporters, the event fosters unity, sportsmanship, and personal growth while nurturing the next generation of rugby talent.

Alfa Kagugu RFC remains committed to developing rugby at the grassroots level, ensuring that young athletes are provided with opportunities to grow both on and off the field.

The festival is expected to deliver not only thrilling matches but also meaningful experiences and lasting memories for all participants.