DAR ES SALAAM (Tanzania) Burundi may be a tiny country geographically, but they have, in recent years, made leaps in African basketball.

Having seen their East African neighbours like Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya live up to their potential, the country with a population of 12.55 million has chosen not to be left behind.

Burundian clubs New Star and Urunani have previously shown in Basketball Africa League qualifiers that they are no pushovers. Now it is the turn of the national team to try and move the needle.

In their bid to qualify for a first continental tournament, the AfroCan in Angola (8-16 July), Burundi will have to overcome some of FIBA Africa Zone 5's best teams.

According to Urunani point guard Brian Kavakure, the team has prepared well for this qualifying tournament which tips off on Saturday.

"Preparations have been good. We spent close to four weeks in camp. Most players in the team know each other even if they play for different clubs like New Star and Urunani. So, I am sure we will be ready for these qualifiers," said the 29-year-old, who spoke to FIBA.basketball on Friday.

"These qualifiers will help Burundi gain prominence. Our fans are also behind us. They support different clubs back home, but now they cheer for one team."

Kavakure touched on how appearances of clubs like New Star and Urunani on the continental scene can enhance the national team.

"It has helped a lot because out of 12 players, seven are from Urunani and New Star. Players Landry (Ndikumana) and Guibert (Nijimbere) have played in the Road To BAL qualifiers. So, we have experience in the team," said the Burundi international.

"We also know Tanzania. Our clubs have played in continental qualifiers over there. We also know some of the players from other countries. We competed against them in the Road To BAL."

Kavakure also feels honoured to have been called up by national team coach Aoron Kagabo, a member of the Urunani coaching staff. The player also explained that he has been out of the national fold for a decade.

"It felt great to be named as part of the team. The last time I played for the national team was ten years ago because of certain issues. We play for national team because we are the best players selected for the job. Most importantly, we love our country," said the 1.84m (6ft0) floor general.

The veteran player is also optimistic about his country's chances of qualifying for the AfroCan.

"That is our objective. Our target is to try and qualify for this tournament. Many see us as outsiders. But we know we can compete against Rwanda and South Sudan. We have to trust in our abilities and play for the country. Everything else will fall into place," concluded Kavakure.

Burundi will play in the opening game against South Sudan at 4 pm (East African Time).

FIBA