Archery supports youth education and social integration in Congo DRC

The project, called "Archery for Peace," is a youth initiative launched on 18 September 2013 in Kinshasa that goes through proper equipment and training of local archers. World Archery commissioned several of its experts to Congo DRC to organise an eight-day training with twenty educators. During this training, the educators were made aware of the use of alternative and suitable material (e.g. the use of bamboo for making bows), an essential step to the sustainable success of sports programmes that use local resources rather than import.

After this training, the project "Archery for Peace" was officially opened in two centres in Kinshasa. Dozens of young people gathered for several hours to practice archery. The event was held in the presence of Benin's Merveille ZINSOU, Godmother of the project, and an important source of inspiration for young people: before becoming African Champion, she made her first steps in archery with local equipment.

The inauguration of this sustainable project is only the first step in a long series of structured and supervised courses to be held at least twice a week, of which the youth of Kinshasa will benefit over time. In addition, "Archery for Peace" is a pilot project for the Congolese Archery Federation. The Federation seeks to develop a broader programme of national social responsibility, not only in Kinshasa but throughout the whole Congo DRC.

Joël BOUZOU, President and Founder of Peace and Sport, said: "On behalf of the entire team of Peace and Sport, I welcome the establishment of the programme ‘Archery for Peace’, which implements the joint efforts we have been making for two years together with the World Archery Federation. This project embodies all the ideas promoted by Peace and Sport".

Prof Dr Ugur ERDENER, President of World Archery, stated: "World Archery is very happy to work with Peace and Sport on this important project in Africa. Using locally produced equipment breaks down stereotypes and encourages the development of sport in this part of the world. We thank Peace and Sport for their contribution."

Read the full press release by Peace and Sport (in French): www.peace-sport.org

World Archery Communication
Source: Peace and Sport