DHL-RWANDA has injected Rwf1m in the promotion of kids rugby through training camps for primary school pupils in Rulindo Distinct.

Up to 180 children from the region attended the special two-weeks training. The training was conducted by nine volunteer coaches from England, South Africa, Canada, Australia, Ireland and Wales, courtesy of DHL-Rwanda.

According to the head of schools’ commission at the Rwanda Rugby Federation, Tharcisse Kamanda, the aim is to promote the sport in schools.

"We hope it will help build a firm foundation for future success,” he told Times Sport.

Also a total of nine local coaches underwent refresher training. The coaches will remain in charge of the Rulindo project.

The children came from Nyirabirori, Tumba Public and Murambi primary schools with each school sending 60 kids. After the training, a tournament was organised and it was won by Nyirabirori with Murambi and Tumba finishing second and third, respectively.

The programme started three years ago. In the first year, 70 kids were trained, 100 the following year, while for the third year it has attracted 180.

According to DHL Express Rwanda Country Manager, Julie Mutoni, they will continue to support the programme.

"You know DHL sponsors the Rugby world championships, so supporting rugby development in Rwanda is nothing new, and we believe this initiative will go a long way to help in producing more players for the country,” she said.