Local boxing is receiving a new face lift to popularize and develop the sport in order to meet international standards.

According to the Rwanda Amateur Boxing Association (RABA) secretary general, Eugene Ndashyikirwa, the association has started by training level one coaches who are meant to form new clubs and overhaul the old ones.

"If new clubs are formed and registered, we shall expect membership fees from them which will be used to finance local competitions and other related activities,” Ndashyikirwa said before adding that the association is ready to provide the new clubs equipment for their basic training.

The equipment, he said, will range from gloves, head guard, punching bag and some small gymnasia equipment.

Raba is also planning to have first seed clubs, 8-14 years, in primary schools; senior clubs, 14-20 years, in secondary schools so that we set a foundation for the game.

"Currently we have set a commission to scrutinize the clubs and help them draft their legal status and we have asked the trained coaches to form an association,” Ndashyikirwa added.

Trained coaches are to sign five-year contracts with the federation.

Ends