Boxing Federation of Rwanda (BFR) has announced they will organize a two-day tournament dubbed ‘Anti-Drug Boxing Competition’ next month. The competition, first of its kind in Rwanda, is scheduled for November 17-24 at Rafiki Club in Nyamirambo and Car Free Zone in the Central Business District, respectively. Speaking to Times Sport on Wednesday, BFR president, Vicky Kalisa, said that the local boxing governing body plans to make it an annual event as they seek to join the government’s effort in eradicating drug abuse, which has proved to affect youth as the primary victims. “The expected numbers of participants is around 80 players, in both male and female categories. We will use two different venues, including the open and freely accessible Car Free Zone, so that many people can witness the beauty of boxing and its potential in Rwanda,” Kalisa said. By press time Wednesday, ten clubs had registered for the tournament namely; Nkuba Boxing Club, Kimisagara, Rafiki, Rubavu, Remera, No-Limit, Kigali-Life, Isata, Hill-Side and Kigali-Winners. Kalisa also noted that the competition will serve as an appeal for boxers who may be tempted to use performance-enhancing substances. He warned that before sending boxers to international competitions, they will have to be tested for banned substances. During the tournament, BFR will work with Rwanda National Police, the Ministry of Gender and Family Promotion as well as the Ministry of Youth so that young boxers can be trained not only to be anti-drug agents, but also taught about human trafficking and unwanted pregnancies. Participants will fight in different age and weight categories starting from under-13 up to the highest senior category. editorial@newtimes.co.rw
