Competitors in the ongoing Pan African Dance Festival (FESPAD) headed to various upcountry districts, including Rwamagana and Huye after thrilling performances in Kigali.Today, the artistes head to Musanze. In Rwamagana, the competition was held at Avega Hall. Gatsibo was represented by Amariza y’ubuganza traditional troupe, Uruhongore rw’Umuco of Kirehe, Impumuro Nziza of Ngoma, Benimpano of Nyagatare and Imanzi of Rwamagana, among others.Impumuro Nziza troupe of Ngoma was the winner and representative of Eastern Province in the national dance competition, especially in traditional dances.Other groups that took part in the competition include Impumuro Nziza of Ngoma district as well as Benimpano from Nyagatare.Huye district hosted the competition on Tuesday afternoon, where groups competed in both traditional and modern dance.A panel of six judges watched on as competitors hit the stage."This is the beginning of the festival and many other dance competitions are to follow,” said Intore Masamba, a local musician, one of the judges."We need to exploit our talents and to develop and promote our culture,” he added.The competition is part of many other activities that will be conducted throughout the festival.  Anaclet Karangwa, the coordinator of FESPAD competitions, said that shifting activities of FESPAD from Kigali City to other parts of the country is to allow local residents witness and participate in the event.Last Sunday marked the official opening of the eighth edition of FESPAD, bringing together several African countries.