Gen Mubarakh Muganga: “APR FC Was Born from President Kagame’s Vision”

On Friday 4 July 2025, during the event dubbed “APR ku Ivuko” held in Mulindi wa Byumba, Rwanda’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Mubarakh Muganga, shed light on the historical foundation of APR FC, revealing that the club was established in 1993 based on the vision of the President of the Republic of Rwanda and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces, H.E. Paul Kagame. ‎ ‎The celebration marked APR FC’s 32nd anniversary since its founding and served as an opportunity to honour the club’s legacy, including the trophies it has claimed and the role it continues to play in Rwandan football. ‎ ‎The

‎The Birth of APR FC: A Revolutionary Idea

‎ ‎Gen Muganga emphasized that APR FC was not founded merely to compete in football but was born out of a broader vision for national transformation. ‎ ‎“APR FC was founded here in Mulindi in 1993. It was an idea of His Excellency the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Paul Kagame,” said Gen Muganga. ‎ ‎He further noted that the club was intended as a strategic tool to promote sports and entertainment within the military, seen as key pillars in building a strong, resilient army that would not only liberate Rwanda but also contribute to its development and transformation.

Gen Muganga: "APR FC was founded from President Kagame’s vision — to build a disciplined, united, and transformative force through sport."

‎“It was meant to be a beacon of unity, resilience, and patriotism not just a football club.”

‎Beyond Competition: A Legacy of Values and Excellence

‎Since its foundation, APR FC has become synonymous with discipline, integrity, and athletic excellence. Through well-structured training programs and a focus on player development, the club has emerged as the most successful football team in Rwanda. ‎APR FC holds an unmatched record of 23 Rwanda Premier League titles, the highest in the country’s football history. ‎Gen Muganga reflected on the fact that the club did not win all titles as a deliberate choice inspired by the values instilled by President Kagame. ‎ ‎ “You might wonder why we didn’t win all the trophies. That’s because, in our culture, we don’t aim to hoard everything. It was about sharing while staying true to our goals,” he explained, referring to the club’s other significant achievements, including 13 Peace Cup titles and four Super Cup victories.

‎APR FC’s Impact on Rwandan Football

‎ ‎The Chief of Defence Staff reiterated that APR FC’s contribution goes beyond collecting silverware. The club has played a vital role in raising the profile of Rwandan football both nationally and internationally. ‎ ‎ “We have competed consistently in African tournaments and finished multiple seasons undefeated in the local league. This shows how committed we are to strengthening football in Rwanda,” he stated. ‎ ‎A

Symbol of National Transformation

‎ ‎Also speaking at the event, Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Hon. Juvénal Marizamunda, highlighted the importance of holding the celebration at Mulindi a site with historical significance as a birthplace of Rwanda’s liberation. ‎ ‎ “Today we are gathered here at Mulindi not just on a football pitch, but on sacred ground where the course of our nation’s history began to change,” he said. ‎ ‎He noted that the celebration coincided with the 31st Liberation Day and served as a reminder of APR FC’s 32-year journey as a symbol of transformation. ‎ ‎ “APR FC represents more than football. It is an embodiment of the change Rwanda has undergone over the past three decades.” ‎

‎A Vision for the Future

‎ ‎Minister Marizamunda added that APR FC’s mission remains ambitious to become a model football club in Rwanda, across the East African region, and on the African continent. He stressed that the club has a duty to raise exemplary players and contribute to the national team’s development. ‎ ‎ “Our aim is to nurture talent, to promote discipline, and to build a legacy of excellence both on and off the pitch.” ‎

Marizamunda: "Today, we gather not just on a football field, but on sacred ground — Mulindi, where Rwanda’s transformation began. APR FC is more than a club; it’s a reflection of the journey our nation has taken over the past 32 years."

‎ ‎APR FC’s story is not just one of sports success, but of national pride, military discipline, and visionary leadership. Founded from a transformative idea by President Kagame, the club continues to play a strategic role in shaping sports culture in Rwanda, instilling values of patriotism, resilience, and unity. As it celebrates 32 years of existence, APR FC remains a cornerstone of Rwandan and a symbol of the country’s continued journey toward excellence.