The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sports and Culture, Lt Col Patrice Rugambwa has urged Rwanda Cricket Association (RCA) to continue developing the sport in the country, starting from the grassroots level.

Rugambwa made the call during a ceremony to recognize outstanding cricket personalities at Kigali Golf Club in Nyarutarama on Saturday night.

"We are very pleased by the strides and the progress that cricket is making in Rwanda; however, to maintain this trend of development, we should give a chance to the young people at the grassroots to learn the sport,” Rugambwa who was the guest of honor told the over 200 guests and players in attendance.

He noted that the Ministry is ready to support RCA in their activities that are geared toward the development of cricket in the country.

The award ceremony was the first of its kind to be organized by RCA to recognize the most outstanding performers throughout the year.

Eric Dusingizimana was named Man of the Year. The Rwanda national team captain set a new world record for the longest time spent batting in the net. He spent 51 hours in the nets.

Eric Niyomugabo and Immaculate Muhawenimana were crowned Male and Female Cricketers of the Year whereas veteran Ugandan coach William Kamanyi notched the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the development of cricket in Rwanda. The award for cricket reporter of the year went to The New Times journalist, Pontian Kabeera.

Sponsors of the different tournaments such as V.R NAIDU Family, UAE Exchange and Computer Point were also rewarded.

In his remarks, the RCA president Charles Haba said, "We have great relationships with people within and outside the country and with such connections; we will continue taking Rwandan cricket forward.”

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