Rwandan football legend Karekezi Olivier, who has often been rumored to have lost interest in Rwandan football, has said he is ready to return to the local game now that the Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA) has started giving former players the recognition they deserve. He also expressed his delight at being selected to help conduct the CAF club competition draws.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently invited Karekezi to be one of the officials assisting with the draws for the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup.
Speaking to Radio Rwanda, Karekezi said the leadership of FERWAFA played a key role in earning him CAF’s trust.
“They contacted FERWAFA Secretary General Bonnie Mugabe, who then called to ask whether I would be available to travel to Cairo. I thanked him, and later CAF contacted me directly and sent all the necessary arrangements. I am travelling there today,” he said.
Former Striker Explains Departure from Local Football
Karekezi, who captained APR FC during his playing career and later coached teams including Kiyovu Sports, explained that his departure from Rwandan football was due to financial challenges rather than a loss of interest.
“There are other things I want to pursue, but I kept quiet because of the experiences I went through while coaching local teams. Sometimes you coach a club for months without being paid, and eventually I decided to step away. I will return when our clubs are in a better financial position.”
Addressing claims that he had grown tired of Rwandan football, he said: “I don’t have much to say about those claims. Looking at the direction we are taking now, I see no reason to be discouraged. I assure you that I will return because of the work the federation is doing.”
Praises FERWAFA for Recognizing Former Players
He also commended FERWAFA for recognizing former football stars and involving them in the development of the game through the Rwanda Former Players Association (FAPA).
Karekezi Speaks About His Son’s Football Talent
Speaking about his children, Karekezi said one of his sons has shown great football potential and believes he could one day play at a high level.
“My eldest son, who was born in 2005, never developed an interest in football despite my encouragement. But his younger brother, Gabriel, plays here in Sweden and really loves the game. I believe he has the potential to become a footballer. He plays as a midfielder supporting the forwards.”
“He is nine years old now, and from what I see, he will play football because he loves it so much. Whenever he watches videos of me, he says he is a better footballer than I was, and I just laugh.”
CAF Draw Scheduled for August 6
The draw for the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup is scheduled to take place in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, August 6, 2026.
APR FC, where Karekezi enjoyed a successful playing career, will represent Rwanda in the CAF Champions League, while Rayon Sports, another club he coached, will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup.
