From May 10 to May 18, 2025, the courts of IPRC Kigali hosted matches that brought together more than 140 players from across Rwanda.
These participants represented various member clubs under the Rwanda Tennis Federation (FRT) and competed in nine different categories.
These included divisions for professional and amateur players, seniors, and people with disabilities, with matches played in both singles and doubles formats for men and women.
The final day of the tournament was marked by a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Players, coaches, officials from the Rwanda Tennis Federation, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Sports and the Rwanda Olympic Committee, came together to pay tribute to the victims.
They toured the memorial, reflected on the history of the genocide, and laid wreaths at the mass graves that hold the remains of thousands who perished in 1994.
Before the championship matches, FRT President Theoneste Karenzi took a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to NCBA Rwanda. He emphasized the bank's crucial contribution in making this year's tournament a success.
'This is a tournament we organize every year, but this edition stood out,' Karenzi remarked. 'We had an impressive turnout of 145 players, which reinforced the very purpose of this event â€" to remember the victims of the Genocide against the Tutsi. NCBA Bank Rwanda's support was vital, and we are currently in discussions about continuing this partnership for future tennis events.'
Representing NCBA Rwanda, Nicholas Manzi spoke about the bank's broader vision for community impact through sports. He noted that the bank's involvement goes beyond financial services â€" it's about uplifting communities through meaningful engagement.
'Supporting sports allows us to connect more deeply with the people we serve,' Manzi said. 'It's part of our mission to contribute to development in ways that go beyond banking. Tennis, in particular, is a sport we see growing in Rwanda with strong organization and great potential, and we are proud to be part of that journey.'
The tournament featured several standout performances. In the amateur men's singles category, Karekezi Colin defeated Rukundo Innocent in straight sets (6â€"2, 7â€"6).
In the amateur doubles division, Sean Buckley and Mugisha Livingston outplayed Antony Hachez and Vincent Vincent (7â€"5, 6â€"0). Among the seniors over 60, Gashugi Innocent and Mucyurabuhoro Eslon secured a win over Gatera Augustin and Katarebe Alphonse (6â€"3, 7â€"5).
In the women's final, Umumararungu Gisele delivered a stunning comeback, rallying from a set down to beat Carine Nishimwe (4â€"6, 6â€"0, 6â€"0).
The Genocide Memorial Tennis Tournament not only showcased Rwanda's growing tennis talent but also underscored the power of sport as a tool for remembrance, healing, and national unity.
IGIHE
