Veterans wounded during Rwanda’s liberation struggle were honored today as APR FC celebrated its 32nd anniversary with a special football match and a gesture of profound gratitude. The event, held at Mulindi, the historic birthplace of APR FC, marked 32 years since the club’s founding in 1993, during the ceasefire period of the liberation struggle, and underscored its enduring legacy of excellence both on and off the pitch.
A symbolic football match between the Founders of APR FC and Gicumbi FC concluded in a 1-1 draw, bringing together past and present generations of Rwandan football in a spirit of remembrance and unity. This friendly yet significant encounter highlighted the club’s deep roots in the nation’s history.
While addressing guests, Hon. Juvenal Marizamunda, Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, underscored the dual significance of the day: “Today, as we celebrate the 31st Liberation Anniversary of our country, we are not only remembering our nation’s journey but also marking 32 years since APR FC was founded. We honor the tremendous legacy of APR FC.”
He emphasized that APR FC is more than a football club, highlighting its profound contribution to national sports development, especially in football. Minister Marizamunda noted that the club has played a key role in supporting the National Team, nurturing young talents, and strengthening other local teams by providing skilled players.
Also present was the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. MK Mubarakh, who expressed his appreciation to fans, former players, friends of APR FC, and all other teams that joined the celebration. He gave insights into the origins and mission of APR FC, stating that the club was founded based on the vision of His Excellency Paul Kagame, the Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the RDF.
Gen. Mubarakh explained that the goal of establishing APR FC was to promote sports and recreation among RPA soldiers, making it a pillar of unity and resilience during the liberation struggle. He recalled how the team used to compete with other teams, including the youth squad of the PSD party, which traveled from Kigali to Mulindi for friendly matches.
Over the past 30 years in Rwanda’s top league, APR FC has become one of the country’s most successful clubs, winning an unparalleled 23 league titles, 13 Peace Cups, 4 Super Cups, and 3 CECAFA trophies. This remarkable record solidifies its position as a powerhouse in Rwandan football.
As a central part of the anniversary event, APR FC fans and management, in partnership with Gicumbi District, demonstrated their profound gratitude by donating six cows to veterans wounded during the liberation struggle. This gesture served as a tangible expression of support and remembrance for those who sacrificed for the nation’s freedom.
