Kigali, Rwanda — Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd, an organization dedicated to promoting sports in Rwanda while nurturing young children’s talents and manufacturing sports equipment, has begun producing footballs for all categories (size 2, size 3, size 4, and size 5).
The organization was founded by a Christian ministry based in America called Ambassadors Football International, which has partnerships with churches in Rwanda (ADEPR, EAR Diocese of Byumba, and the Union of Baptist Churches of Rwanda – UEBR). Currently, about 8,000 children play football after lessons and studying the Word of God.
Football Unveiling Event
The event to unveil the football made with Rwandan cultural elements was attended by coaches from Ambassadors Football International who were in Rwanda for seven days, being trained to become instructors who will train other coaches in their home countries.
The training lasted a week and was held in Kigali from March 6 to March 13, 2026. It was attended by coaches from countries including Nigeria, Liberia, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia, South Africa, and Rwanda.
Local Officials Praise the Initiative
The event was also attended by the Executive Secretary of Kigali Sector, Rwikangura Jean, who was also representing the Mayor of Nyarugenge District. He praised the work of Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd in promoting the talents of Rwandan children who play with balls made in the country under the “Made in Rwanda ball” initiative.
The Nyarugenge District representative also commended Ambassadors Group Rwanda for finding local solutions and beginning to manufacture sports equipment in Rwanda while providing employment to youth.
“A Ball That Shows Our Culture”
Pastor Seneza Jean Paul, who leads Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd, said they were delighted to welcome Ambassadors Football International coaches from various countries and that using balls made in Rwanda during the coaches’ training reinforces the important role in manufacturing quality sports equipment.
He continued, “We have a ball we made that shows our culture as Rwanda, where we stopped following what others do. We now make balls in our own culture and in the colors of our country, so that anyone who sees it knows it was made in Rwanda.”
Manufacturing Process Demonstration
During the training, participants visited Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd’s facilities on March 7, 2026, where they were shown the football manufacturing process and explained the organization’s role in developing youth football.
Addressing Equipment Shortages
Jonathan Ortlip, Director of Ambassadors Football International, praised the work of Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd, saying he was no longer able to send enough balls to Rwanda for children to play with, and that the balls he was sending couldn’t withstand the playing fields in Rwanda.
He added that manufacturing playing balls here in Rwanda is important and provides a solution to sports equipment shortages. He continued by praising the role and great effort of those making the playing balls: “We have ball makers; if you don’t make balls, this won’t work.”
Success Stories from Youth Development
Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd plays a role in the development of football in Rwanda. Children who have gone through their academy in Nyamagabe District have reached the first division. Examples include:
– Uwineza René, who plays for Kiyovu Sports and has been called up to the National Team “Amavubi” preparing for FIFA Series 2026
– Mugiraneza Bizimana Didier, who was promoted to the Gasogi United senior team
– Bana Etienne, who now plays for Ntare FC
All these children developed through the Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd academy, giving hope for the future.
Previous Training Programs
In September last year, 33 coaches from Gicumbi District completed training that earned them a Licence D certification, organized by Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd in partnership with the Rwandan Football Federation (FERWAFA).
