In celebration of African Day, observed on May 25, Imbuto Foundation, in partnership with Basketball Africa League (BAL) and other partners, engaged in Umuganda, or community service, at Kimironko Sports and Community Space, in Kigali.
Participants contributed to expanding and beautifying the community space by building the foundation and walls of tennis and soccer fields, as well as cleaning and varnishing the basketball court walls.
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Clare Akamanzi, the Chief Executive Officer of NBA Africa, emphasized the significance of Umuganda, highlighting its role in fostering community service and collaboration.
"Umuganda is a very important initiative that emphasizes communities coming together to solve problems and address issues. It underpins the need for collaboration and teamwork, much like in sports,” Akamanzi stated. She added that the world could learn from Rwanda’s example of community service and teamwork.
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Samuel Dusengiyumva, the Mayor of Kigali, commended BAL and the entire basketball community for their trust in the country,the City of and Kigali in particular.
Zephanie Niyonkuru, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Sport, commended all partners involved in the Umuganda event.
"It's a special day for us, not only because it's African Day, but also because we are expanding community playgrounds. The Ministry of Sports has been working with partners like Imbuto Foundation, BAL, and local government to ensure we have playgrounds across the country as part of our performance contracts,” Niyonkuru said.
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He mentioned ongoing projects in Kibagabaga, Gikondo, and Rusororo, among other places countrywide.
Amadou Gallo, President of the Basketball Africa League, expressed gratitude for partnering with Imbuto Foundation.
"On Africa Day, we are proud to be here continuing the work we started last year. Our efforts to grow basketball and inspire young people are about creating safe spaces where boys and girls can play, learn, and grow with the values of sports,” Gallo said.
According to Gallo, Umuganda is a special event that is very inspiring.
"It should be known all across Africa and around the world, where people in the community commit to acts of kindness, getting out to clean and build, and then really taking a moment to reflect and contribute to the development of their community. We are extremely excited to be here today through our partnership and to bring many members of the BAL family,” he added.