Rwanda introduces equal pay for men and women in FERWAFA Super Cup

The Federation of Rwanda Football (FERWAFA) has made a landmark decision to bring equal prize money for the East African country’s major women’s and men’s cup competitions.

The federation’s Second Vice-President responsible for Development and Technical Affairs, Richard Mugisha, confirmed the development regarding the Super Cup during a press briefing held in Kigali on Monday.

The vice-president, who was accompanied by FERWAFA General Secretary Bonnie Mugabe, justified the decision, saying it was meant to further promote women’s football development.

“The team that wins the Super Cup will receive 20 million Rwandan francs [USD 13.731], while the runner-up will be awarded 10 million. These prizes will be equal for both men’s and women’s teams, as part of our commitment to elevating the stature of the Super Cup as we accelerate the growth of women Football” Mugisha said.

Rwanda’s most prestigious cup competition will feature APR FC versus Rayon Sports FC in the men’s category, and Rayon Sports WFC against Indahangarwa WFC in the women’s category. Both matches are scheduled for January 10, 2025.

Mugabe is quoted as having said they had engaged potential sponsors to come on board and support the Super Cup.

“FERWAFA is still in discussions with sponsors to ensure that the Super Cup will be a visually appealing event, combined with other entertainment activities. Fans who attend will enjoy high-quality football plus entertainment.”

FERWAFA Super Cup: Which are the participating teams?

APR FC will compete in the Super Cup as they won the Peace Cup and the Rwanda Premier League in the previous season. Rayon Sports FC finished as runners-up in the league to qualify for the Super Cup meeting with APR.

The women’s category will feature Rayon Sports and Indahangarwa FC. Rayon Sports WFC qualified for participation in the cup after winning the National Women Super League the previous season.

Indahangarwa WFC will participate in the Super Cup by virtue of being the Peace Cup champions.