Rwanda Energy Group (REG) rallied from a set down to defeat Kenya’s Chema and win the men’s title at GMT 2025. In the women’s final, it was an all-Rwandan affair as Police stunned RRA in a thrilling four-set showdown to claim the crown.
Kigali, June 22 – The 2025 Genocide Memorial Tournament (GMT) in volleyball concluded at Petit Stade.
The three-day tournament, held from June 20 to 22, brought together 21 teams from Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan to honor the memory of volleyball community members killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Police, who eliminated APR in the semifinals, faced RRA, who had beaten Kepler in all-Rwandan semifinal on Saturday.
Despite appearing dominant early on, Police were challenged by RRA, who leveled the match at 1–1. However, Police responded with determination, winning the next two sets to seal the victory (15-25, 25-22, 25-15, 27-25).
Coach Christian Hatumimana’s squad delivered a “mission accomplished” performance, with strong backing from the stands—including Inspector General of Police, Felix Namuhoranye.
On the men’s side, Kenya’s Chema VC—newcomers making a strong regional debut—reached the final after a shock win over compatriots KPA. They faced REG VC, who had eliminated Uganda’s Chazpir in the other semifinal.
Chema claimed the opening set swiftly (18-25), but a tactical switch by REG coach Benon Mugisha—replacing setter Sylvestre Ndayisaba with newcomer Crispin Ntanteteri—turned the tide.
Ntanteteri’s sharp connection with hitters Thon Magembo and Gideon Angiro, combined with solid blocking, helped REG dominate the next three sets (27-25, 25-22, 25-18).
Earlier on Sunday, APR (women) and KPA (men) won the third-place matches in their respective categories.
Merline Terry Tata of Police was named MVP in the women’s category, while Thon Magembo earned the men’s MVP award after standout performances in both the semifinal and final.
GMT is an annual multi-sport event dedicated to honoring members of Rwanda’s sports community killed during the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The volleyball fraternity alone lost over 50 members and this year’s edition brought together teams from across the region in tribute and remembrance.
Photo Credits: Derio_Images
