Kigali hosts 2026 CAF Africa Schools Football Championship qualifiers

The 2026 CAF Africa Schools Football Championship CECAFA Qualifiers are set to begin in Kigali, Rwanda, on September 3. The Under-15 tournament features both boys’ and girls’ categories, with eight countries competing for a chance to represent the CECAFA zone at the continental stage.

In the boys’ category, hosts Rwanda lead Group A alongside Kenya, Sudan, and Tanzania. Defending champions Uganda are in Group B with Somalia, South Sudan, and Burundi. In the girls’ category, Rwanda headlines Group A with Burundi, South Sudan, and Uganda, while Tanzania leads Group B alongside Sudan, Kenya, and Somalia.

Matches will be held at the Kigali Pele Stadium and the FERWAFA Complex. The tournament includes significant financial incentives supported by the Motsepe Foundation: winners will receive US$100,000, runners-up US$75,000, and third-place finishers US$50,000. These funds are earmarked for improving school infrastructure, such as classrooms, sports facilities, and clean water systems. Additionally, the event serves as a capacity-building platform, offering training for coaches, medical staff, and young reporters.