After a ten year period of adopting a 100% nationalistic approach in its talent pool to field only Rwandan citizens at the club, the Rwandan army side have sought otherwise.
The change in strategy comes after struggling to compete in continental football due to their limited recruitment approach to signing cross-border players.
After winning seven national league titles and two Peace Cups in domestic competitions, still, the army side failed to qualify for the CAF Champions League or Confederations Cup group stages.
The team recently unveiled three new players, including foreign nationals Ismael Nshimirimana, Taddeo Lwanga, and Danny Ndikumana, all on two-year contracts.
Before joining Djibouti side Arta Solar, Lwanga played for Tanzanian giants Simba SC. He helped them to a domestic double against their arch rivals Yanga in 2021.
After impressing in the 2019 AFCON tournament in Egypt, he was signed by Tanta FC with whom he appeared 11 times.
The 29-year-old has previously featured for Express FC, Vipers SC, SC Villa, Tanta SC (Egypt), and Simba SC (Tanzania).
Burundian midfielder Ismael Nshimirimana also joins the Rwandan military-owned side after parting ways with Kiyovu Sports. Rwandan player Danny Ndikumana was signed from Burundian outfit Rukinzo FC.
Ndikumana was allegedly supposed to play for the Burundi national team, but chose Rwanda.
Lt Col Richard Karasira, the newly appointed APR chairman, recently vowed to restore the club’s glory. He also set lofty goals ahead of the CAF Champions League.
APR are said to be holding talks with additional international players such as Nigerian forward Victor Mbaoma. He played for Uzbek side Qizilqum Zarafshon and Super Eagles.
The army club also agreed terms with Congolese international goalie Pavelh Ndzila, who has goaltrained for Etoile du Congo since 2013.
Meanwhile, the club has also released ten other players, and loaned two. Skipper Djabel Manishimwe is seeking new opportunities elsewhere.
Others leaving the club include; Bonheur Mugisha, Itangishaka Blaise, Placide Rwabuhihi, Fiston Ishimwe, Fabio Ndikumana, Dieudonnne Ndayishimiye, Keddy Nsanzimfura, Irshad Nsengiyumva, and Aboubakal Uwiduhaye.
Yves Mugunga and Annicet Ishimwe will depart on loan before the start of the season.
At the players’ general meeting on Tuesday, July 11, the board said it was proud of all our departing young players and their achievements while at the club.
