Musanze, Karongi crowned Umurenge Kagame Cup winners

Men’s final Musanze 3-2 Muhanga Women Karongi 1-0 Rwamagana Defending champions Musanze district came from two goals down to beat Muhanga District in a thrilling Umurenge Kagame Cup final played on Wednesday at Amahoro stadium. After conceding two goals in just 20 minutes of the first half, Musanze district that was represented by Muhoza Sector regrouped and scored two goals in the first half before adding the winner in the second half. The competition was held in all the 416 Sectors in the Country. Muhanga District was represented by Nyamabuye Sector. In the women’s final played earlier in the day, Karongi District overcame a determined Rwamagana team edging them 1-0 in a pulsating encounter. The only goal of the game came in the 20th minute from the penalty spot after a foul committed by Rwamagana’s Berenice Kayisabe in the box. Match referee Ibrahim Ugirashebuja had no option but to give her matching orders and award a penalty. Karongi’s Jean D’Arc converted the penalty. The competition that is supported by the Rwanda Governance Board started in 2006. It is aimed at deepening the principles of good governance especially at the grassroots level. In 2010, the tournament was named Umurenge Kagame Cup in recognition of the role of President Paul Kagame in promoting good governance and sports in general. Speaking after the finals, Sports and Culture Minister Julien Uwacu reiterated the importance of sports in national development. She noted that the 2015 Umurenge Kagame Cup competition has showcased a lot of talent that is in the Sectors. “This competition provides a large pool of players which can feed the national team,” Minister Uwacu said. Rwanda Governance Board CEO Professor Anastase Shyaka noted the importance of sports in bringing communities together and promoting healthy living. Winners walked away with medals, trophies and cash prizes ranging from Rwf500, 000 to Rwf1million. editorial@newtimes.co.rw