OVERVIEW

ISONGA is a national sports development initiative in Rwanda supported by the French Development Agency (AFD). The programme aims to identify, nurture and develop young athletic talent across Rwanda while modernising school sports infrastructures and strengthening the skills of coaches and educators. It supports 17 schools, has rehabilitated 27 playgrounds, identified 599 young athletes and trained 37 coaches.

The programme is implemented by the Ministry of Sports and the Ministry of Education, with technical support from France Éducation International during the pilot phase. ISONGA contributes to the emergence of a new generation of Rwandan athletes preparing for international competitions, including the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar. 

FOUR COMPLEMENTARY PILLARS FOR SUSTAINABLE IMPACT

• Development of Centres of Excellence: ISONGA establishes centres of excellence in secondary schools, providing high-quality facilities, structured training environments and specialised coaching.
• Capacity Building for Coaches and Educators: the programme trains sports educators, coaches and technical staff across six sports disciplines, ensuring the professionalisation of school sports.
• Talent Identification and Athlete Development: through national competitions and scouting systems, ISONGA identifies promising young athletes and offers structured development pathways. Annual national talent camps bring together hundreds of athletes.
• Rehabilitation of School Sports Infrastructure: the programme rehabilitates school playgrounds and sports areas, ensuring safe and modern spaces for training and competitions.

KEY DATES

ISONGA has been supported by AFD since 2021. The programme contributes to national talent development cycles and preparations for major competitions, including the 2026 Youth Olympic Games.

PROGRAMME PARTNERS 

French Development Agency (AFD)

AFD is the financial partner supporting national sports policy, infrastructure investment and youth talent development.

Ministry of Sports of Rwanda

The Ministry oversees programme implementation and alignment with the national strategy to become a leading sporting nation.

Ministry of Education of Rwanda

The Ministry co-leads the integration of structured sports education within school systems and supports the development of sports educators.

France Éducation International (Pilot Phase)

Provided technical support during the initial phase, including the development of pedagogical frameworks and training structures.