Theogene Uwayo, the president of Rwanda Karate Federation (Ferwaka), has welcomed the Japanese Embassy’s grant worth USD 67,372 to purchase new karate equipment.

The equipment to be purchased include; 400 tatami mats, 3 scoreboards and 30 flags for referees.

The handover of the grant took place at Lyceé de Kigali gymnasium on Sunday.

During the ceremony, Uwayo noted that the local karate governing body lacked appropriate karate mats and had to use borrowed equipment of other martial arts.

"The new karate mats and other equipment will enable our players to train in better conditions and motivate them to practice harder, striving to qualify for the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2020 where Karate will make its first appearance,” Uwayo said.

He further added, "Karate cannot develop without proper equipment. I have no doubt the grant from our Japanese friends will be of great impact to the sport and players.”

Ferwaka and the Japanese Embassy in Rwanda have enjoyed a healthy partnership over the years, with different activities in their scope of collaboration, including organising the annual Ambassador’s Cup competition.

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