Delegates from 16 country members of the Association of Francophone Triathlon Countries (FRATRI) are in Rubavu, Western Province for a two-day general assembly.

Rwanda is hosting the annual meeting for the first time in a move that is believed to be a game-changer for the sport in Rwanda, according to local Triathlon governing body’s president Alexis Mbaraga.

"we are looking forward to sharing experiences on the best practices we can use to prepare future Triathlon players from a young age. Countries like France are advanced in this game and I think this meeting is important for each of us to work together on how we can grow the level of this game among our young players,” Mbaraga told Times Sport.

"It’s an opportunity for use to build collaboration with them so they can help us in the development of our young players as we seek to prepare our own young players ahead of Dakar Games in 2026,” he added.

French envoy to Rwanda Antoine Anfré and Rwanda’s Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Sports, Didier Shema Maboko, are among a host of dignitaries attending the meeting.

The FRATRI comprises 24 members so far, with Africa as the most represented continent.

Rwanda, whose Triathlon Federation became a member of the body in 2016, won hosting rights for the FRATRI congress beating off stiff competition from Switzerland, Senegal and Central African Republic which were also vying for the chance to host the annual event.