The Rwanda Tennis Federation (RTF) has committed to supporting the tennis tournament, organized by the Ingenzi Initiative, through its program aimed at promoting tennis among women and girls (Ingenzi Women Tennis Program).
This is part of the effort to further expand the tournament so that it becomes an annual event, attracting more players.
On Sunday, October 13, 2024, the tennis tournament organized by Ingenzi Initiative, called the ‘He for She Challenge 2024,’ took place at Ecology Tennis Club, in IPRC-Kigali. It is a tournament played by mixed teams of men and women, known as Mixed Doubles.
This tournament, held for the third time, was won by Joseline Umulisa, partnered with Abdallah Murenzi. Second place went to Sonia Tuyishimire, partnered with Cyril Kayiranga, while third place was claimed by Carine Nishimwe, partnered with Théonèste Karenzi, the president of the Rwanda Tennis Federation. The prizes awarded included a trophy, medals, and envelopes containing cash.
After winning the tournament, Joseline Umulisa expressed her excitement about the tournament . She said, “I am happy to have become the champion in this mixed doubles tournament. It’s great, and it’s clear that it is making progress because we didn’t have such tournaments before.”
“We also hope to see a significant number of women participating so that we can achieve gender balance with the men.” She added.
The president of the Rwanda Tennis Federation (RTF), Théonèste Karenzi, thanked the organizers of the tournament and requested that it be expanded.
“I would like to thank the organizers of this tournament, the Ingenzi Initiative, all the participants, and the winners. However, I ask that we work together to expand it into a bigger event. I urge the leaders of the clubs to participate in this tournament so that it grows larger.” He said.
The RTF boss stated that the Federation is ready to provide any possible support to ensure the tournament sustain. “I promise that we will support you, so that this tournament grows and be held every year.”
The Ingenzi Women Tennis Program is one of the programs of the Ingenzi Initiative. It supports women and girls who wish to play tennis by providing training and organising tournaments for them.
The president of this organization and tennis coach, Mr. Philbert Ndugu, states that their goal is “to reach a level where we can have a player who wins trophies, both at the amateur level and among professionals.”
