President Paul Kagame of Rwanda has urged for immediate action to tackle various issues affecting Rwandan football, including the presence of witchcraft.
During a televised session titled “Ask the President” with the Rwanda Broadcasting Agency (RBA), President Kagame expressed his concern about unethical practices, particularly among coaches, such as witchcraft and bribery.
Rather than focusing on proper training and development, some individuals resort to these unethical practices, which President Kagame identified as a pressing matter that needs to be addressed.
Despite significant investments in the sports sector, Rwandan teams have faced challenges in achieving success. The national football team, for instance, has qualified for the Africa Cup of Nations only once, in 2004, and currently sits at the bottom of their qualifying group, yet to secure a victory.
Known for his passion for football and his support for the English club Arsenal, President Kagame has been actively involved in promoting sports in Rwanda. Since 2018, Rwanda’s Tourism Authority has maintained a controversial sponsorship deal worth £30 million ($42 million) with Arsenal Football Club.