International Gymnastics Federation president Morinari Watanabe is in Kigali where he will attend the 18th African Rhythmic Gymnastics Championship taking place at BK Arena from April 25-26.
The championship, which is happening for the first time in Rwanda, has attracted over 100 gymnasts from 12 countries across Africa including Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Togo, Côte d'Ivoire, Congo Brazzaville, Namibia, South Africa, Mauritius, Cape Verde and host Rwanda.
It is Watanabe’s second visit to Rwanda. He was last in Kigali in 2022.
"Rwanda is doing miracles for the gymnastics because when I came here two years ago, I thought it was impossible to organize an African championship, but now they are doing it,” the Japanese told the press upon arrival on Wednesday night, April 24.
In attendance at the championship is also African Gymnastics Association president Dr Ehab Esawy who arrived in Kigali on Wednesday.
Of the 12 participating countries, Egypt is the most decorated in the African Rhythmic Gymnastics championships history with 144 medals including 72 Gold, 30 Silver and 22 Bronze.
South Africa follows with 107 medals including 35 Gold, 35 Silver and 37 Bronze while Angola are third with 17 including 3 Gold, 3 Silver and 11 Bronze.