The National Paralympics Committee (NPC) needs Frw 50m to stage the 2008 Paralympics World Cup, Times Sport has learnt. After successfully staging the 2006 world cup, the first of its kind on the African continent, Rwanda has once again won the race to host the 2008 edition. The tournament is scheduled for December 7-9 and NPC’s secretary general Celestin Nzeyimana says that the lump sum is aimed at making the 2008 edition more attractive. “In 2006, the tournament cost stood at Frw 10m but this year, it is shooting up to Frw 50m because we (NPC) together with the ministry of youth, sports and culture (Mijespoc) want to stage a colorful event,” Nzeyimana noted. Although no company/sponsor has shown interest in associating with the tournament, Nzeyimana remains optimistic. “It is too early to make conclusions but we expect a good number of sponsors to come on board,” the official continued. So far, six countries have lined up for the three-day tournament although the number may increase in due course. These countries include defending champions Germany, Austria, DR.Congo, Uganda, Burundi and the hosts Rwanda. In 2006, Germany was crowned champion in a tournament that had attracted five countries.Ends
