Rwanda women’s national volleyball team head coach Frédéric Guérin has unveiled a 20-player provisional squad dominated by young talents and first-time call-ups as preparations begin for the 2026 African Women’s Volleyball Championship in Kenya.
The squad announcement marks Guérin’s first major assignment since taking charge of the national teams, with the French coach opting for a blend of emerging players and established talents as Rwanda seeks a strong continental campaign.
The selected players are drawn from four local clubs only — APR WVC, RRA WVC, Police WVC, and Kepler WVC. APR WVC has the highest representation with seven players, followed by RRA WVC with six, Police WVC with four, and Kepler WVC with three.
Several players have earned their maiden national team call-ups, including setters Ndagijimana Nancy of RRA and Mpuhwezimana Diane of APR, middle blockers Umutoni Anitha and Uwiragiye Sandrine of RRA, and outside hitters Uwase Claire (Police), Tuyizere Angelique (Kepler), and Tuyishimire Aloysia (RRA).
The list also includes APR opposite hitter Nyirahabimana Divine and liberos Kabatesi Judith (APR) and Uzamukunda Fillette (Kepler), who are joining the senior national team setup for the first time.
The inclusion of several young players highlights Rwanda’s focus on developing a new generation of volleyball talent capable of competing at the highest continental level.
Guérin will be assisted by Police WVC head coach Hatumimana Christian and APR VC assistant coach Igihozo Cyuzuzo Yvette, while Murangwa Usenga Sandrine will oversee players’ physical conditioning.
Rwanda will compete at the African Women’s Volleyball Championship scheduled for August 2026 in Kenya. The team finished fourth in the 2023 edition of the tournament under former coach Paulo de Tarso Milagres.
