Nshizirungu Hubert Bebe, a former Kiyovu Sports player who also represented Atraco and Rayon Sports, is leading a groundbreaking initiative to revive football in Rwanda. Through his Better Future Football Academy, he is committed to nurturing young, local talents and boosting Rwanda's football potential.
Debunking the Myth: Rwanda Boasts Untapped Football Talent
In an exclusive interview with InyaRwanda, Hubert Bebe revealed his motivation behind leaving France to establish a football academy in Rwanda. He said, “I made this decision after reflecting on my own journey which began in youth teams. After 1994 to 2005, youth football almost disappeared in Rwanda. Upon my return, I decided to dedicate myself to developing young Rwandan footballers.”
Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and sponsor shortages, Hubert persisted with his vision. “Initially, the search for sponsors was interrupted due to COVID-19. Plans to renovate Kigali Pele Stadium also delayed progress. However, I’m moving forward now as conditions improve,” he explained.
Hubert firmly believes in the long-term success of his academy. “With the progress we’ve made and the promising children I’ve worked with, I anticipate remarkable football talents to emerge within the next five years,” he confidently stated.
He also criticized claims that Rwanda lacks football talent, emphasizing, “The talent exists, but what’s lacking is a proper framework to nurture these skills. My mission focuses on identifying and developing untapped potential in young players.”
Kiyovu Sports and National Team: Addressing Trophy Droughts
Hubert Bebe expressed disappointment over the lack of championship victories for Kiyovu Sports and “Amavubi,” Rwanda’s national football team. “It’s heartbreaking that Kiyovu Sports hasn’t won a league championship since 1993 when I played for them. Now, it’s been 32 long years without victory,” he lamented.
Similarly, the national team’s trophy drought weighs heavily. “Amavubi hasn’t secured a trophy since winning the CECAFA tournament in 1998. That’s 27 years without a championship title,” he noted with concern.
Highlighting the need for leadership and strategy, Hubert added, “Kiyovu Sports needs to reclaim its identity as a trophy-winning club. Leaders must align resources and expertise to bring back success. On the national front, more focus should be directed at preparing the team for significant accolades, as recent years have shown potential for progress.”
Reflecting on Rwanda’s CAN appearance in 2004, Hubert said, “That was a proud moment that elevated Rwandan football. Sadly, we haven’t maintained the momentum. Authorities need to harness resources effectively to recapture that glory.”
Foreign Player Recruitment: A Call for Discernment
Hubert urged Rwandan football clubs to carefully evaluate foreign players before recruitment, warning, “Some foreign players in Rwanda underperform compared to local talent.”
He remarked on Rayon Sports’ roster for the CAF Confederations Cup, saying, “Some foreign players on this team lack the prowess to compete at the African level. Amazingly, there are Rwandan players who outperform them.”
Hubert further cautioned against wasted investments, adding, “Clubs must scout skilled foreign talents—players who can actively contribute, not sit on the bench. This is a frequent issue, leading to misallocated funds.”
Hubert Bebe strongly advises Rwandan clubs to prioritize quality while signing foreign players.
Watch the full interview with Nshizirungu Hubert Bebe