Brazil clinched the title at the 11th annual Kwibuka Women’s T20 Tournament, completing a remarkable campaign that celebrated resilience and solidarity. Held at the Gahanga International Cricket Stadium from June 3 to 14, the tournament featured nine national and development teams, including Brazil, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Malawi, Cameroon, and a Zimbabwe High Performance
The Brazilian side displayed exceptional form throughout the round-robin stage. Highlights included a decisive semi-final victory over Tanzania, securing an 8-wicket win with 38 balls remaining
Their consistent all-around performance carried them into the title match with growing confidence.
In the first semi-final, Brazil’s clinical bowling restricted Tanzania to a modest total, paving the way for a straightforward chase to the final. The second semi-final (details forthcoming) shaped up to be a tightly contested battle, securing an all-important spot in the championship showdown.
Facing Rwanda in the final, Brazil maintained their dominance. A disciplined bowling attack limited Rwanda’s threats, while the Brazilian batters executed a composed chase, completing the run-target with comfort to lift the Kwibuka Cup.
The Kwibuka Tournament, launched in 2014 by the Rwanda Cricket Association, honors the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. It also fosters the growth of women’s cricket across Africa and beyond
Since its inception, it has grown from a local East African competition to a fully international event. The 2025 edition’s expansion to 40 matches and inclusion of Brazil underscored this global dimension.
Uganda, champions in 2024, were among the favorites but were left out of the title conversation during the knockout stages. Brazil’s win marks a first for a South American nation, signaling a notable shift in the competitive landscape of women’s cricket.
Additionally, Rwanda’s captain, Marie Bimenyimana, continued to shine throughout the tournament. The experienced all‑rounder has been a cornerstone of the national side since its WT20I debut in 2019
