More than 500 young athletes from various schools across the country are in a 10-day training camp in Nyanza district, where they are honing their skills in different sports under Isonga project, an initiative by the Ministry of Sports.

Aimed at developing Rwanda’s future sports stars, the project brought together children under the age of 15 to receive specialised training in volleyball, handball, cycling, basketball, football, and athletics.

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The camp is being held at Igihozo Saint Peter Secondary School, featuring experienced coaches who are imparting their expertise to the young talents.

The participating youngsters expressed their excitement for the skills they acquired.

"I believe sports will sustain me in the future," said Nikita Mushumba, a 14-year-old basketball player from Lycee Notre Dame de La Providence in Huye.

A daughter of the renowned coach Charles Mushumba, Ineza hopes to reach the high levels in basketball.

"My parents always encourage me to balance my studies with sports. My goal is that one day I will play in the WNBA," she noted.

Yves Shami, another participant, who plays as a striker in football, says the project has set him on a path to advance his dreams in the game and be able to contribute to the country through sports.

"Joining Isonga has helped me grow significantly as a player. I aim to score goals for the national team one day. My dream is to play for APR FC before moving to Europe," he noted.

Cyclist Irene Keza, a 13-year-old from Rubavu district, shared her passion for the sport, which she has loved since childhood.

"I was thrilled to be selected for the Isonga program. I have learned so much about handling wind resistance, maintaining proper posture on the bike, and navigating downhill rides. My dream is to one day compete in France," she said.

The camp was not only about developing athletic skills but also nurturing future sports professionals in other fields.

Alongside the athletes, 120 students were trained as aspiring referees, and 30 others received training in first aid. The training camp, which began on August 5, will conclude on August 19.

Launched in May 2021, the Isonga Project is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Sports and the French Development Agency (AFD).

The first phase of the project is set to conclude in December 2024.

The project has also invested in the construction and renovation of 27 sports fields across 14 partner schools.