Sports Minister Richard Nyirishema has commended Rwanda U20 handball team for showing their winning character after returning in the country as champions of Africa.
Rwanda were crowned champions of the 2024 IHF Trophy Continental Phase that concluded in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Wednesday, November 6, after beating Reunion 34-25 in the final.
Arriving at the Kigali International Airport, the team was warmly welcomed by fans and officials, including Rwanda Handball Federation (FERWAHAND) President Alfred Twahirwa.
Later, at a celebration held at Hôtel des Milles Collines, officials expressed pride in the team’s historic win, marking Rwanda’s first-ever intercontinental handball trophy and reflecting on the sport’s growth in the country.
Nyirishema congratulated all the players and coaches urging the team to keep their focus sharp for upcoming challenges.
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"It’s good to celebrate, but without going overboard, because you have the continental phase coming up, where you’ll face the best teams in their regions.”
"We’re seeing the fruits of diligent talent detection and ministry support, and this victory shows what such initiatives can achieve," Nyirishema said.
Reflecting on his experience watching the team in action, Nyirishema expressed pride in their determination and skill.
"Today, we celebrate what our U20 handball team has accomplished. I saw firsthand how convincingly you played, and this trophy is a testament to your hard work,” he remarked.
The minister encouraged the young athletes to stay dedicated, not only for the upcoming continental phase but also as they aspire to join the senior team, which will compete in the 2026 African Championship, set to be hosted in Kigali.
The victory not only saw Rwanda lift the trophy but they also booked a ticket to the IHF Trophy Intercontinental Phase in 2025.
Twahirwa emphasized that structured talent identification and consistent support from the Ministry of Sports have helped shape today’s winning team.
"It’s the first time a Rwandan team has won an intercontinental trophy but you’ve now set a milestone for future generations to build upon,” he remarked.