On Tuesday, May 8, 2025, AS Muhanga cemented their status as the second team to earn promotion to Rwanda's Premier League for the upcoming season. This achievement follows Gicumbi FC’s promotion announced last week. Both teams, rich in Premier League experience, are determined to perform at their peak and make an impact in the competition.
Gicumbi FC clinched promotion with an unbeaten campaign, earning 12 points in the recently concluded mini-championship. AS Muhanga trailed closely behind with 10 points, securing their spot in Rwanda’s top-tier league. The two have been absent from Premier League action for years — AS Muhanga last competed during the 2020/21 season, enduring a winless campaign and relegation hardships, while Gicumbi FC last played in the 2021/22 season before dropping out.
These teams have long yearned for Premier League redemption.
AS Muhanga’s Vice President, Bakundukize Pamphile, shared the team's challenges during the relegation period, emphasizing resource constraints. He expressed optimism about their return, saying, “We are thrilled to make it back to the Premier League. Contrary to popular beliefs, our aim is not just to participate—we’re here to compete. The secret to moving forward lies in strong sponsorships, and Muhanga is rich in potential supporters.”
Pamphile added, “Promotion was a collective goal, and we worked tirelessly to achieve it. Today, we stand ready, backed by individuals who know football and are willing to invest in the sport. The district will also play a crucial part, but our ultimate preparation begins at home.”
Gicumbi District Mayor, Nzabonimpa Emmanuel, who oversees Gicumbi FC, celebrated his team’s triumph, emphasizing collaboration and ambition for their Premier League campaign.
“Returning to the Premier League is exhilarating. We owe this success to everyone who contributed—the coaches, players, and the supportive residents of Gicumbi who stood by us through our challenges. Our goal now is excellence and consistent performance,” Nzabonimpa stated.
How will these teams adapt to the increasingly competitive Premier League landscape?
Some observers remain hesitant about the upcoming seasons, predicting that Gicumbi FC and AS Muhanga’s return might merely be a brief stint. Sustained effort and strategic adjustments will be necessary for their survival.
In the upcoming season, Gicumbi FC will host home games in their district stadium, currently undergoing renovations to meet league standards. Similarly, AS Muhanga boasts a modern stadium, regarded as one of the best facilities within the districts.
These teams must adapt to the financial realities of the Premier League.
After over three years away, the teams must confront the financial challenges that come with maintaining a competitive squad. Issues like delayed player salaries or operational inefficiencies can lead to detrimental effects, including relegation. Notably, even seasoned Premier League teams are struggling with resource management within the league framework.
As a cautionary tale, teams like Sunrise FC remain in the second division after mismanaging their Premier League stint. Despite adequate funding, Sunrise FC’s downfall stemmed from procedural errors rather than financial insufficiency. A similar fate awaits any team entering the competition unprepared for its demands.
Gicumbi FC and AS Muhanga must enter the Premier League with clear strategies and vigilance. Mistakes or disputes from their previous seasons could resurface as challenges in the league’s intense and competitive environment.
In the coming season, competitive alliances and tactical decisions will determine each team’s survival in the league. Fair play often takes a secondary role as teams operate strategically for results.
While some teams have survived after a poor start to the season, achieving longevity often depends on consistent strategy, external goodwill, and robust team management.
Returning after years of absence, Gicumbi FC and AS Muhanga enter a league shaped by the post-pandemic recovery efforts. Nonetheless, their advancement is a testament to resilience and determination. Congratulations and welcome back to the Premier League!
