Twenty-nine years since liberation, Rwanda has harnessed the power of sports to not only foster peace, unity and national cohesion, but to also ensure development of such a sector that can attract investors. For instance, today, the country has established itself as one of Africa’s leading destinations for sports events. The journey continues as the country shows growing commitment to establish more infrastructure for various sports. Times Sport’s Damas Sikubwabo caught up with Sports Minister Aurore Munyangaju, where she shared insights on sports development in Rwanda and major strides worth celebrating. Excerpts: How do you rate Rwanda’s sports development in comparison to how it was before liberation? Rwanda's sports development has made significant progress since the country's liberation which marked the end of the genocide against the Tutsi in 1994 by APR (Rwanda Patriotic Army). Sports have been prioritized as a means to promote unity, health and national development. In line with the country’s overall development agenda, various initiatives have been implemented to improve sports infrastructure, support grassroots development, and foster talent identification and training. Without needing to compare, sport is deeply established in the Rwandan culture. We can refer to traditionally known disciplines in which Rwandans excelled such as Gusimbuka Urukiramende (High Jump) kumasha (archery), gukirana (wrestling) and so on. Modern sports, as we know them today, were introduced in Rwanda through schools around the 1940s. This led to the emergence of athletes from diverse backgrounds. While the practice of sports was present, differences can be drawn in terms of regulations. Previously, sports were mainly pursued for leisure, but with new policies in place, there has been a shift towards professionalization, high-level performance, and excellence. Rwanda is now focusing on creating platforms that promote sports professionalism, sports as a business, capitalizing on events as means for mass mobilization, increasing sports awareness, generating income and attracting sports tourism. Although a comprehensive comparison between the two eras may be challenging, it is clear that Rwanda is striving to enhance its sports landscape, emphasizing professionalism and leveraging sports as a tool for economic growth and national unity. What impact has sports played in the national development to a liberated Rwandan community? Sports have had a profound impact on national development in liberated Rwanda. They have facilitated healing and reconciliation, promoted physical and mental well-being, empowered youth, contributed to economic growth, enhanced the country's image globally, and fostered social integration and inclusion. Sports have played a significant role in advancing various aspects of Rwanda's development and uniting its people. Additionally, sports have been at the centre of the liberation journey from the time the Rwandan Patriotic Army launched the liberation struggle in October 1990. Some of the most memorable events are football and volleyball matches played on July 18, 1993, in Mulindi, between RPF Inkotanyi and Abakombozi from PSD. This was done in the spirit of preaching peace and unity, and sports was the ideal channel as it holds such values needed to strengthen ties within communities. In economic growth, sports have become a catalyst for economic growth and job creation. Recognizing the potential of the sports industry, Rwanda has made significant investments in sports infrastructure and has successfully hosted international events such as the Basketball Africa League (BAL) in Basketball, Tour du Rwanda in cycling, Ironman 70.3 in triathlon and Kigali International Peace Marathon in athletics to mention a few. Additionally, the promotion of sports tourism through initiatives like Visit Rwanda has attracted investments, generated revenues, and created employment opportunities in the country. These efforts are contributing to Rwanda's economic development and its positioning as a key driver of prosperity. ALSO READ: Kwibohora29: Major sports facilities constructed in post-genocide Rwanda In Healing and Reconciliation of post-genocide Rwanda, sports have been used as a mobilizing platform through which youth and citizens were recruited into the genocidal agenda. Luckily, in post-genocide Rwanda, sports have played an important and crucial role in the healing and reconciliation process For instance, a game between Rayon Sports and Kiyovu SC, in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide, restored peace and hope that had been banned from the land of a thousand hills. It brought Rwandans together on the rebuild path that they were going to have to engage in as one nation. Initiatives around themes promoting unity, peace and reconciliation such as Umurenge Kagame Cup, were initiated under the patronage of His Excellency President Paul Kagame. The annual completion has, for instance, brought together non-professional players of various ages from across the country. These competitions promote social cohesion and collective identity while emphasizing the values of good governance. Through sports, Rwanda has successfully created a platform for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together, fostering healing and promoting a sense of national unity. In physical and mental wellbeing, through promoting physical fitness and active lifestyles, sports contribute to enhancing the health and vitality of individuals. Consequently, this has a positive effect on productivity, decreases healthcare expenses, and improves overall quality of life. An illustrative example includes events like Car Free Day and the Kigali International Peace Marathon. Today, in Rwanda, the health sector is confidently promoting sports as a way to combat non-communicable diseases, and in the process contributing to a better healthy life especially among the elderly. In youth development and empowerment, sports play a crucial role in the development and empowerment of youth in Rwanda. They provide a platform for sports talent identification, skills development, and character-building. Engaging in sports helps young Rwandans acquire essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, resilience, and leadership. By participating in sports, youth are given the opportunity to grow, thrive and become well-rounded individuals who contribute positively to society. And, last but not least, in social integration and inclusion, sports have played a crucial role in promoting social integration and inclusion. They have served as a platform for bringing people from diverse backgrounds together, fostering mutual respect and understanding. Additionally, efforts have been made to organize competitions for individuals with disabilities, both physical and mental, through the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) in partnership with Ministry of Sports. These initiatives have provided opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in sports and showcase their abilities, promoting inclusivity and breaking down barriers. What is your message to all sportsmen and women as Rwanda marks 29th Liberation Day anniversary? To all sportsmen and women in Rwanda, thank you for your dedication and contributions to sports development. Your achievements have inspired and united our nation. On this special day of liberation, let us reflect on our journey and the role of sports in healing and national pride. Keep pursuing your goals with determination and represent Rwanda with pride on the global stage. The Government is committed to supporting you and investing in your success. Together, we will continue to build a thriving sports environment. Any other important information or message related to liberation will be most welcome Let's celebrate our freedom, unity, and accomplishments. Together, we'll build a thriving Sports culture where every athlete can succeed. As sportsmen and women, let's honor those who sacrificed for our country by protecting our Liberation gains and promoting Peace and Development. Be patriotic, responsible, self-disciplined and actively participate in shaping our nation's future.
