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The sporting revolution that is
showcasing a nation's resurgence

Proud Rwandan President Paul Kagame shows his colours.Rugby is the fastest-growing sport in Rwanda with boys and girls of all ages and abilities taking up the game in increasing numbers. Since the formal establishment of the Federation Rwandaise de Rugby (Rwandan Rugby Federation) in 2009, there has been continual development of structured leagues and other competitions and the first overseas tours by the country’s national team, the Silverbacks (named after Rwanda’s signature mountain gorillas).

The Silverbacks toured to Hong Kong in both 2010 and 2011, playing with distinction in the Kowloon RugbyFest (a 10-a-side tournament featuring teams from all over the world), training with elite coaches and players, and winning many new friends. The sponsorship, publicity, rugby experience and goodwill generated by these tours are driving the game’s development at home.

In addition, the FRR has developed close ties with Penguin International RFC, the elite UK-based touring team that visits rugby backwaters across the world to spread the game and teach rugby’s core values. This included a landmark visit to Rwanda in November 2010 by the Penguins Coaching Academy, in which former Scotland coach Frank Hadden and Scottish Rugby Union referee development manager Colin Brett, accompanied by Penguins manager Craig Brown, conducted a week-long series of clinics and training sessions.

Rugby’s rise in Rwanda reflects the growing status of the country itself as a flag bearer for Africa with new-found political stability, an expanding economy and a burgeoning tourism industry.

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