Under the project, FERWAFA seeks to equip between four and eight playgrounds with synthetic turf.

The development was communicated to members of the federation during a general assembly held on Sunday at Lemigo Hotel.

“We first had to get the model for playgrounds to be developed, and estimate the budget to get the real design of the project. We have already issued tenders and the master plan will be available in a few days ,” said FERWAFA Secretary General, Uwayezu François Régis.

“We have written to the management of Rutsiro FC, Gicumbi FC and Espoir FC to explain their role during the development of these playgrounds. These are among first pitches identified by FERWAFA to set up modern playgrounds,” added Uwayezu.

He explained that the main purpose is to develop many playgrounds without full dependence on FIFA budget but rather get more funding from partners of these teams.

“Discussions are on good progress. FIFA is ready to provide funding by the time we will submit a complete proposal of the project,” noted Uwayezu.

The decision to develop 10 playgrounds across the country at a cost of Rwf 2 billion was taken during FERWAFA General Assembly held on 5th May 2019 in Musanze.

FERWAFA has decided to inject funds into this project to implement FIFA Forward 2.0 initiative aimed at promoting football whereby US$ 2 million (almost Rwf 2 billion) donated by FIFA will cater for the upgrading of playgrounds.

FERWAFA seeks to spend Rwf 1.96 million to cater for development of playgrounds in 2021 budget. The federation wants 40% of the budget covered by partners of selected football teams.

Gicumbi football pitch is among infrastructures to be upgraded in 2021.