Citizens, especially contestants who participated in Umurenge Kagame Cup competitions have praised the tournament for being more inclusive this year than the previous years.

The final games of Umurenge Kagame Cup Competitions held on Sunday 09 June 2019 in Huye and Gisagara Districts, culminated with the awarding ceremony for winners in different categories.

Umurenge Kagame Cup Competitions were introduced in 2006. The competitions started with only football games for both men and women involving different sectors across the country. The competitions were introduced following the second phase of decentralisation as a strategic channel for mobilisation of both citizens and new local leaders to embrace the reforms and changes brought by the decentralisation.

As time went by, new disciplines like athletics, volleyball and basketball were added. This year, the competition for the first time was comprised by six disciplines after sitting volleyball and cycling were also included.

“This year marked a special milestone in the competitions. We added more disciplines in order to underline the principle of inclusiveness which is key in Rwanda’s governance. “Highlighted Prof. Shyaka Anastase , Minister of Local Government at the closing ceremony of Umurenge Kagame Cup Competition 2019.

“I urge all local government entities to give these competitions deserved value. Winning in these competitions  is not about just awards, it is rather all about preserving the values of good governance and dignity. ” Stressed Prof. Shyaka Anastase

Dr. Usta Kaitesi, Ag. CEO of RGB also emphasized that Umurenge Kagame Cup Competitions fall in line with people-centred governance upheld by the Governmant of Rwanda.

“Our government is committed to have healthy and empowered citizens capable to work for their own socioeconomic development and to contribute to national development. Through this competitions, the citizens are empowered, citizens get opportunity to develop their talents for their own benefits. The cash prizes that are given to winners contribute to poverty alleviation since they serve as start-up capital for individuals or groups to initiate income generating projects.” Said Dr. Usta Kaitesi.

Umurenge Kagame Cup Competitions aim mainly to promote the principles of good governance, fostering collaboration between local government entities and learning from one another, empowering citizens through talent development.  

Winners excited

Winners including both individuals and teams who scooped different awards extoled the Competitions as key indicator of citizens-centred governance

Mukarukundo Bertine: Winner for Women Cycling

“I am really happy to emerge the first in cycling. There is peace and security in our country. This gives us, as citizens, the opportunity to exploit our potential.”

MUSABYIMANA Agnes: Winner in Athletics/ 300Om

Umurenge Kagame Cup Competition is very important. For example, I am given 300,000FRW, this is enough money for me. As a mother, it will help me to pay school fees for my children. This money is also a capital for business. It is really a pleasure for us that HE Excellence Paul Kagame, The President of the Republic of Rwanda has given us such platform.

HAKIZAMUNGU Frank/ a player for Kirehe Volleyball that won the trophy

We give much value to this competition given the fact that is attributed to HE. Paul Kagame, the President of the Republic of Rwanda. We participate in this competitions wholeheartedly as an expression of the love we have for our President. We are very grateful because this tournament really lifted us, especially the youth, from loneliness.