Tennis Federation to organize tourney in memory of Gasigwa

Rwanda tennis federation will organize an annual tennis tournament in memory of the deceased star Jean-Claude Gasigwa, who died suddenly while jogging on Thursday. A coffin containing the body of Gasigwa being taken to Rusororo Cemetery. (Pontian Kabeera) This was announced by Minister for Sports and Culture Joseph Habineza while addressing mourners during burial of the 31-year-old at Rusororo Cemetery yesterday. Ugandas top tennis player Duncan Mugabe could not control emotions as Gasigwa was eulogized. (Pontian Kabeera) “He has been Rwanda’s ambassador in various countries in the sport of tennis and his performance has always been outstanding,” said Habineza adding that it’s ideal that the federation, in conjunction with the ministry, organises a tournament to remember him as well as help his young family. Gasigwas widow with their daughter and his mother-in-law. (Pontian Kabeera) Uganda Tennis Federation President Cedric Babu, who led a delegation from Uganda that included elite tennis players like Duncan Mugabe and David Oringa, said Africa has lost one of its finest Tennis players and teacher. Rwanda National Olympic Committee President Robert Bayigamba speaks during the burial ceremony. (Pontian Kabeera) Uganda Tennis Federation President Cedric Babu promised help from the Uganda Tennis Fraternity to the deceaseds family. (Pontian Kabeera) “I first met Gasigwa 12 years ago when I was still playing tennis, we played a very tight game that lasted three and half hours and I eventually lost but from then on, I knew he would be one of the best players in the region and continent,” said Cedric Babu. North Kivu Province Tennis Federation President Simon Kazungu said they will always take part in the Gasigwa Tennis Memorial Tournament. (Pontian Kabeera) Babu further added that the Ugandan tennis federation will always respond positively to any call that is geared towards helping the family of the deceased. Duncan Mugabe, Uganda’s top tennis star said Gasigwa’s death is a great loss for tennis in Rwanda and the region. “He has been a great friend especially off the court and I will always honor the call to participate in any tournament in memory of him.” Sports and Culture Minister Joseph Habineza proposed that a tennis tournament be held in memory of Gasigwa. (Pontian Kabeera) Alan Cooper, another top tennis star from Kenya sent a condolence message to Gasigwa’s family, ‘wishing them comfort in this trying time.’ Rwanda Tennis Federation President Kassim Ntageruka said Gasigwa was a personal friend and promised to help deceased’s children.