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Kinyarwanda
Rutsiro District to Host Its First-Ever Triathlon Competition
Rutsiro District is set to host a triathlon competition for the first time, featuring a combination of cycling, running, and swimming. The event is one of the highlights of the upcoming Kivu Beach Expo and Festival, a combined exhibition and cultural celebration scheduled to take place in Boneza Sector.
The Kivu Beach Expo and Festival will run from December 9 to 15, 2025, at the spacious gardens of Palega Beach Inn, located across from Bugarura Island, home to more than 2,000 residents.
According to Jean Baptiste Umukuza, head coach of Rwanda’s national triathlon team, participants will compete in a 20-kilometer cycling race, a 5-kilometer run, and a 450-meter swim.
“This sport attracts tourists and is very popular among foreigners. It’s also visually exciting for spectators,” Umukuza told UMUSEKE.
He added that discussions are underway with potential investors to ensure the competition becomes a regular event. There are also plans to establish a triathlon club within the district that will compete in major tournaments.
“We encourage the public to attend—either as spectators or participants. Even beginners are welcome. They can form relay teams where one person swims, another runs, and another cycles,” he said.
Speaking to UMUSEKE, Yves Iyaremye, Director of Yirunga Ltd, said the festival, organized in partnership with the district, aims to promote tourism and showcase local investments.
“The competition will start at Mutuzo Lodge. It’s a great opportunity to attract tourists and highlight the beauty of Rutsiro District,” he said.
The Kivu Beach Expo and Festival, to be held along the shores of Lake Kivu, will feature several activities including running competitions, swimming contests, and additional water sports.
Participants will also compete in badminton—played using a racket and a shuttlecock—and beach volleyball.
The festival will further include a unique experience of visiting the traditional long-horned Inyambo cattle as they swim across Lake Kivu, coffee-based tourism activities, and an unprecedented musical concert hosted on a boat—marking a first in Rutsiro District.
Dative Kayitesi, Mayor of Rutsiro District, says the Kivu Beach Expo and Festival will play a key role in showcasing the district’s achievements, especially in tourism.
She emphasized that Rutsiro is home to numerous attractions, including Lake Kivu, spectacular rolling hills, the Gishwati-Mukura National Park, and other natural wonders.
“These activities will help investors understand that investing in Rutsiro is safe and profitable because this district is a tourism destination,” she noted.
