Experiencing the Joy of Football Ministry in Rwanda
Rwanda, the land of a thousand hills ….. and so much more
Dan Money
Chair of Trustees, Ambassadors Football Great Britain
August 2025
Earlier this year, following widowhood and retirement, I embarked on a solo travel to South Africa. That journey stirred in me a desire to continue exploring Africa. Within weeks of returning home, an invitation arrived from Pastor Jean-Paul Seneza in Rwanda, asking for support in running camps, football outreaches, and coaches’ training. We connected—and I have just returned from spending two and a half weeks with him and his team.
I wasn’t sure what to expect, but what I discovered was one of the most welcoming, beautiful, and joy-filled countries I have ever visited. The people of Rwanda go above and beyond to make guests feel not just welcome, but truly part of their family. Staying at Dove Hotel, attached to the ADEPR church headquarters, I experienced warm hospitality and was blessed with passionate, vibrant worship just outside my door.
Football with a Kingdom Vision
The ADEPR church has partnered with Ambassadors Football since 2017 to see lives transformed through Jesus Christ. Under Jean-Paul’s leadership, the ministry has grown remarkably, engaging not only coaches but also senior clergy, government officials, the Rwandan FA, and partners like Chick-fil-A who provide training support.
Ambassadors Football through partnership with churches in Rwanda is now active in 24 districts of the country’s 30 districts , with plans to expand into the last. More than 6,000 children are being reached at the grassroots level, alongside 140 youth league teams and elite academies for both boys and girls. In a nation where grassroots football outside of schools is scarce, Ambassadors Football through the partnership with churches in Rwanda is filling the gap and becoming a model of excellence and respect.
Joy on the Field and in the Word
Visiting the academies, I was deeply moved not only by the quality of coaching but by the joy on the children’s faces, whether playing football, engaging in Bible study, or simply sharing life together. Their passion reminded me that the game is far more than sport; it is a powerful tool for discipleship and community.
The coaches themselves are eager to grow. During my visit, Chick-fil-A facilitated a three-day leadership training, equipping the team with practical tools to strengthen the ministry. Meetings with clergy and local officials reinforced the esteem in which Ambassadors Football is held across Rwanda.
Highlights from the National Camp
A true highlight was the National Camp in Kigali, where winners from the 8 regional tournaments, along with Anglican and Baptist champions, came together. For many children, it was their first trip to the capital. Over three days, they enjoyed coaching, fun games, Bible study, and a tournament.
Even a rain delay turned into a moment of joy as the kids gathered in song and dance until the skies cleared. It was a living picture of teamwork, respect, and unity in Christ.
Building for the Future.
Looking forward, the vision is bold: to establish artificial turf pitches that serve both Ambassadors Football and the wider community, while also generating sustainable income. With guidance from Brian of ForeverLawn in the US, plans are underway for a facility in Kigali, fundraising has already begun.
On the practical side, Rwanda’s landlocked geography makes importing football equipment costly. In response, Ambassadors Football has launched a ball-making enterprise producing hand-stitched, durable balls. This not only ensures “a ball for every child” but also employs 26 people in a rural village, an inspiring blend of ministry and enterprise.
Equipping Coaches Spiritually and Practically
I was also blessed to witness Ambassadors Group Rwanda Ltd working alongside the Rwanda Football Federation to train church-sent coaches. These sessions uniquely integrate football education with spiritual formation, multiplying leaders who can disciple children both on and off the pitch.
A Final Word
As I reflect on my time in Rwanda, what stands out above all is the joy, beauty, and faith of this nation. I feel privileged to have shared life with the Ambassadors Football team and cannot thank them enough for their hospitality.
If you feel stirred to learn more, visit Rwanda, or explore ways to support this growing ministry, I encourage you to connect with Pastor Jean-Paul Seneza at jseneza@ambassadorsfootball.org. You will be inspired.
