Cycling: Afrika Mashariki Fest debuts Burundi Tour

After organizing a Peace Run in Burundi in May, youth group Afrika Mashariki Fest is set to have another big sports event in the central African state.

AMF will from December 11th to 16^th stage the Burundi Tour Cycling Championship.

AMF Chief executive Ronex Kisembo said hundreds of cyclists are expected from the six East African Community (EAC) partner states.

AMF is a youth organization that uses art and sport advocate for east African integration. Its headquarters are in Kampala.

"This race is aimed at promoting peace, patriotism and domestic tourism especially amongst the young generation.

The race also marks the 200^th birthday since invention of the bicycle.

Flag off will be in Ngozi Province and Finish will be Gitega Province in Central Burundi. Burundi's leading telecom company Econet-Leo is the main sponsor.

Five winners will be awarded for each section of the race. The top three overall cyclists will thereafter be crowned on December 16th.

Kisembo has called on government, civil society organizations and business community to support the event.

Children also have a chance to feature in the event in a five kilometer race. There will also be a women's 10km. Corporates and diplomates will also have a 10km event.