Indian community launches sports gala

THE Indian community in Rwanda, under their umbrella association, the Indian Association of Rwanda (INAR), launched a sports gala to mark 66 India Independence Day that falls on August 15.

Thursday, July 12, 2012
Members of the Indian community competing in the badminton event during the launch of the gala. The New Times/Courtesy.

THE Indian community in Rwanda, under their umbrella association, the Indian Association of Rwanda (INAR), launched a sports gala to mark 66 India Independence Day that falls on August 15.The main gala was preceded by athletics, badminton, table tennis, swimming, chess and cricket competitions whose finals will be held on the Independence Day at Utexrwa grounds. The gala is open to all categories, men, women and children.Speaking at the launch of the activities, Mohammed Salim, the Vice President of INAR said that the winners of the competition will walk away with trophies and other prizes."We are enjoying our stay in Rwanda, that is why we engage in various activities in the country for instance blood donation ,among others,” he said.Salim stated that next year they are planning to compete with other communities in Rwanda and in athletics competitions.There are about 1,500 Indians living in Rwanda, working in different fields, including mining, education and energy sectors.The competitions will run for the whole month up to August 15.The INAR Vice President noted that the game of cricket in Rwanda appeals to the Indian community.The Indian community boosts of four clubs playing in the national cricket league. They are; Kigali, Challengers, Strikers and Indorwa cricket.INAR provides a common identity to the Indian Community in Rwanda through promotion of unity, friendship and goodwill based on mutual understanding and cooperation.