Fifteen young Rwandan footballers from the Isonga Project are taking part in the Arsenal Academy Training Experience, a youth development program organized by Arsenal FC in London, United Kingdom.
The week-long training, which began on October 27 and runs until October 31, 2025, aims to help young players enhance their skills, gain international exposure, and experience professional football environments.
The students traveled to London with their coaches and will train at Arsenal’s official training grounds, play friendly matches, and visit the iconic Emirates Stadium, home of Arsenal FC.
Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, emphasized that the partnership between Rwanda and Arsenal extends far beyond football. “Our collaboration with Arsenal is about more than sport. It’s about empowering young people to learn new skills, grow with confidence, and showcase their talent. It also helps promote Rwanda as a country full of opportunities,” she said.
Since May 2018, Rwanda has been an official partner of Arsenal through the Visit Rwanda campaign under the Rwanda Development Board (RDB). The “Visit Rwanda” logo appears on the left sleeves of Arsenal’s men’s first team, the under-23s, and the women’s team.
This partnership has played a major role in boosting Rwanda’s tourism, international image, and national branding, showing how sports can be used as a strategic platform for development and diplomacy.
The participation of the 15 Rwandan students in the Arsenal Academy program is seen as another milestone in strengthening this collaboration inspiring the next generation of Rwandan athletes and highlighting the country’s growing influence in global sports.
Author: Justinmind HARERIMANA
