KIGALI — Tanzanian football powerhouse Azam FC has selected Rwanda as the venue for its official pre-season training camp ahead of the 2026–2027 campaign, further cementing the country's growing reputation as East Africa's premier sporting destination.
The Chamazi-based giants, known for their financial muscle and ambition, are set to arrive in Rwanda for intensive preparations that will see them share training grounds with some of the continent's most storied clubs. This marks Azam FC's return to Rwanda, having previously featured in the country during Rayon Sports Day in 2025.
Azam FC's Communications Manager, Thabiti Zakaria, confirmed the decision, stating that the camp will provide the ideal environment for the team to gear up for the challenges ahead. The move comes as the club has already invested heavily in the upcoming season, securing five new signings at an estimated cost of over 3 billion Tanzanian shillings.
A Growing Hub for Regional Football
Azam FC will find familiar company in Rwanda, as the country has become a preferred destination for clubs affected by regional instability. Sudanese giants Al Hilal and Al Merreikh, who have been using Rwanda as their base due to the suspension of domestic football in Sudan, will continue competing in the country's BK Pro League for the 2026/27 season. Both clubs have also been cleared to host their CAF Champions League home matches in Kigali, with Al Hilal playing at Amahoro Stadium and Al Merreikh at Kigali Pelé Stadium.
The 2026 CECAFA Kagame Cup, currently underway in Rwanda, has further highlighted the country's appeal as a football hub, featuring 12 elite clubs from across East and Central Africa. Among the participants is South Sudan's Jamus SC, which will also be part of the pre-season landscape during Azam FC's stay.
World-Class Facilities
Rwanda's sporting infrastructure has been a key factor in attracting top-tier clubs. With venues such as Stade Umuganda in Rubavu and facilities in Musanze now available, the country offers world-class training environments that rival any in the region.
Azam FC's pre-season camp is expected to feature a series of friendly matches, including potential encounters with local Rwandan sides as well as fellow regional visitors. The club previously secured a 2-0 victory over APR FC in a pre-season friendly, and their return is anticipated to draw significant local interest.
Strategic Move Amidst Regional Competition
Azam FC's choice of Rwanda comes as the Tanzanian league's top clubs—Simba SC and Singida Black Stars—are also present in the country for the Kagame Cup, creating a unique concentration of East African footballing talent. The camp is seen as a strategic move by Azam's management to sharpen the squad ahead of what promises to be a fiercely contested domestic season.
As Rwanda continues to invest in sports infrastructure and attract international events, the country is rapidly establishing itself not just as a host, but as a central player in the region's football ecosystem. With Azam FC's arrival, that status is only set to grow.
