Niyibizi Souleymane, a seasoned football coach and founder of Intare FC, has created a legacy of sports excellence within his family. His children, Niyibizi Gwiza Orlanne and Niyibizi Shema Larsson, shine in basketball, while his wife, Ingabire Claire, is a celebrated volleyball referee.
Speaking to InyaRwanda, Niyibizi reflected on his remarkable journey: “My name is Niyibizi Souleymane, and I am one of the founders of Intare FC. After the Genocide, I played for Intare FC and later transitioned to coaching. Throughout my career, I have led several notable teams, including Amagaju, Etoir d’est, Isonga, Kiyovu Sports, Espoir, and Rwamagana, which transformed into Muhazi United."
Driven by a deep love for his family, Niyibizi decided to step down from his coaching role at Espoir FC, which he had successfully elevated to the second division. This choice enabled him to focus on his role as a family man.
He explained, "Although I had a year remaining on my contract, it became essential to terminate the agreement because I felt I could no longer work far away from my family."
Beyond his professional achievements, Niyibizi has nurtured the talents of some of Rwanda’s top football players, including Olivier Karekezi and Muhire Kevin. He proudly noted, “In 1997, Olivier Karekezi joined APR FC after training under me in Butare. Additionally, referee Twagirumukiza Abdul, who was an exceptional player, also developed under my guidance. There are others like Kevin Muhire, Niyonzima Olivier Seif, and Mugisha Francois Master, among many."
While football has been an integral part of Niyibizi’s life, he takes immense pride in his children’s passion for basketball over following in his footsteps. “It’s their choice," he said. "My son plays basketball. He excels, having trained with renowned academies and under experts like Katibito and Nkotanyi Ildefonse. They can vouch for his football skills, but he chose basketball, and he’s thriving."
Basketball indeed thrives in his family. His son, Niyibizi Shema Larsson, recently joined APR BBC for the prestigious BAL tournament in Senegal. “He currently plays for Intare BBC, the APR BBC academy, and was one of the players participating in the BAL tournament in Senegal. He’s known as Niyibizi Shema Larsson,” Niyibizi proudly shared.
Similarly, his daughter, Niyibizi Gwiza Orlanne, is making waves in basketball, playing for APE Rugunga. Contributing to their sports house legacy, his wife, Ingabire Claire, is a distinguished national-level volleyball referee.
Niyibizi Souleymane emphasized his unwavering support for his family, which is proudly known as a "sports family.” He remarked, “Our home is called the house of sports. I want them to know I love them and stand behind them in all their endeavors. Whether it’s my wife officiating volleyball or my children pursuing basketball, I’ll always be their biggest supporter, ensuring they feel we’re in this together."
Niyibizi Souleymane continues inspiring young athletes as a coach at Better Future Football Academy.
His wife, Ingabire Claire, leaves her mark in volleyball as a dedicated referee.
Niyibizi Shema Larsson, his son, is gaining attention in the basketball world as part of APR BBC and the BAL tournament.
His daughter, Niyibizi Gwiza Orlanne, is carving her name in basketball for APE Rugunga.