Police HC, Kiziguro SS crowned GMT 2026 Champions (Photos)

Police Handball Club and Kiziguro Secondary School were crowned champions in the men’s and women’s categories respectively at the Genocide Memorial Handball Tournament finals held on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at Petit Stade Amahoro.

Police HC claimed the men’s title after defeating arch-rivals APR HC 32-27 in a highly competitive final.

The victory marked a successful redemption for the Rwanda National Police side after finishing runners-up in the 2025 edition, where they suffered a 28-26 defeat to Kenya’s Equity HC in the final.

Both 2026 finalists earned their places through impressive semifinal victories.

Police HC overcame PEVIC 41-33, while APR HC secured their spot in the final with a 39-28 victory over Uganda’s Ndejje University.

APR HC started the final strongly and enjoyed an early advantage, but Police HC gradually settled into the contest and imposed their rhythm on both ends of the court.

Through effective defensive organization and quick transition play, Police HC overturned the deficit and entered halftime with a narrow 16-14 lead.

The second half followed a similar pattern as Police HC continued to dictate play.

Inspired by standout performances from Yves Kayijamahe and tournament Most Valuable Player (MVP) Samuel Mbesutunguwe, the side maintained its offensive efficiency while limiting APR HC’s scoring opportunities.

Police HC added another 16 goals after the break, compared to APR HC’s 13, sealing a deserved 32-27 victory and the championship title.

PEVIC secured third place in the men’s category, while Samuel Mbesutunguwe was named the tournament’s MVP after a series of outstanding performances, highlighted by his seven-goal contribution in the final.

In the women’s category, Kiziguro SS crowned champions after edging ESC Nyamagabe 27-26 in a thrilling encounter.

The tournament began with group-stage matches on Friday, with Kiziguro SS and ESC Nyamagabe advancing to the final after defeating Ndejje University and UR Rukara respectively in the semifinals.

The final was a tightly contested affair from the opening whistle.

ESC Nyamagabe held a slender 10-9 advantage at halftime after a defensive first half that produced only 19 goals.

However, Kiziguro SS returned from the interval with greater attacking intensity and improved ball movement.

Their ability to capitalize on crucial possessions proved decisive as they outscored ESC Nyamagabe 18-16 in the second half to secure a dramatic one-goal victory and the championship trophy.

Ndejje University finished third, while Kiziguro SS star Iragena Joselyne was named the tournament's Best Player.

The Genocide Memorial Tournament, organized annually by the Rwanda Handball Federation (FERWAHAND) in partnership with the Rwanda National Olympic and Sports Committee (RNOSC), is held in remembrance of the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

This international tournament serves not only as a platform for competitive handball but also as an opportunity for athletes, officials, and supporters to honor the memory of those who lost their lives during one of the darkest chapters in Rwanda’s history.

Photos

Best Players of the Tournament: Iragena Joselyne (Women's Category) and Mbesutunguwe Samuel (Men's Category).