MUHANGA- Local leaders in Muhanga District have pledged to promote sporting activities as a way of propelling social and economic development in the community.

The leaders made the commitment on Tuesday, during a conference organised by  Right To Play (RTP) - an international organisation that promotes sport activities worldwide.

The forum discussed issues of sport for development, promotion of health, and socio-economic development of the residents, especially the young generation, as a way of attaining national development goals.

The Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Affairs, François Uhagaze said that the district has been doing well in sports. She, however, noted the need to mobilise the community and local leadership in promoting sporting activities.

RTP Country Manager,Gningue Massamba, said that the program has been successful in Rwanda, in accordance with the national sports development policy. He also called on leaders to promote sporting activities among young children and other social clusters.

The RTP Program Manager, Joséphine Mukakalisa, stated that the role of leaders is vital in disseminating the NGO’s activities countrywide. So far, 75 schools, in 18 districts, have actively implemented the use of sports in promotion of social aspects of life such as peace and unity among children in Rwanda.

Mukakalisa also noted that RTP intends to work closely with leaders to promote local sporting programs and extend its activities throughout all districts.

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