RismadarVoice Reporters, April 23, 2026
The 2026 CAVB Men’s Club Championship got underway in grand style in Kigali, Rwanda, as hosts APR delivered a commanding performance on opening night at the iconic BK Arena.
The tournament opened on Wednesday with a colourful ceremony that blended cultural displays, music, and vibrant team parades, setting the tone for ten days of elite volleyball action featuring 24 top clubs from across Africa.
The presence of Paul Kagame added prestige to the event, as he received a rousing applause from fans during the opening match.
Off the court, officials highlighted the broader significance of the championship. Rwanda Volleyball Federation President, Raphael Ngarambe described the competition as a platform for unity, sportsmanship, and opportunity for athletes across the continent.
Similarly, CAVB Vice President, Gilbert Muvunyi praised Rwanda’s role as host, noting that the country represents resilience and ambition in African sport. Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, welcomed teams and officials, marking the nation’s milestone as the first Sub-Saharan country to stage the prestigious championship.
On the court, APR wasted no time justifying the home support, defeating Zimbabwe’s Black Rhinos in straight sets to kick off their campaign in dominant fashion. The victory not only thrilled the home crowd but also underlined APR’s credentials as strong contenders for the continental title.
As the competition gathers pace, attention now turns to MatchDay 2, where several high-profile fixtures are lined up across the BK Arena and Petit Stade.
Of particular interest to Nigerian fans is the clash between Nigeria Customs Service and Cameroon’s Litto Volleyball Club, scheduled for 8:00 p.m. at the Petit Stade.
Other standout fixtures include a heavyweight encounter between Cameroon Sports Volleyball and Egypt’s Al Ahly, as well as ties involving Petrojet, Kenya Ports Authority, and REG of Rwanda.
With Kigali now buzzing and Africa’s top clubs battling for supremacy, the championship promises intense competition, national pride, and a celebration of volleyball excellence as teams chase continental glory.
