Goal Programme - Fédération Rwandaise de Football Association - 2007

Football is extremely popular in Rwanda. In the past, the country has suffered great political unrest caused by tribal warfare and even genocide, and sport was quite evidently affected by this situation. In 1994, the national association re-launched competitions and entered the international fray once again. In 1999, FIFAs support allowed a tournament for East and Central African countries (CECAFA) to be held in Rwanda, with the home team lifting the trophy. This was Rwandan footballs greatest day to date. But more importantly, Rwanda showed the world that it had opened its borders and could welcome foreign visitors once again.

The Rwandan football associations technical centre, opened in April 2005, needed only one improvement: an artificial turf pitch was laid to ensure optimal conditions that remain constant year round, thus making it possible to implement development programmes for youth players. This project, half of which was funded by the Rwandan state, was approved by the Goal Bureau on 24 July 2007. The running of the centre is funded by sponsors and entrance fees.