HANANE DJOUA
Doha
Ambassador of Rwanda to Qatar HE Igor Marara has drawn parallels between Rwanda and Qatar in promoting sports for national health and community engagement, while highlighting his lifelong passion for cycling.
In an exclusive interview with Qatar Tribune, Ambassador Marara emphasized how sports, particularly cycling, can serve as a powerful tool for enhancing public health and fostering community unity.
In both Rwanda and Qatar, cycling has emerged as more than just a recreational activity. It has become a platform for promoting physical fitness, boosting national pride, and encouraging community involvement.
Ambassador Marara sees similarities in how both nations are leveraging sports to achieve broader societal goals, such as improving public health and creating a sense of unity among citizens.
From his childhood fascination with bicycles to his current role as a diplomat, Ambassador Marara’s story weaves a compelling narrative about the unifying power of sports and the significant role it plays in his life.
“I have always loved cycling since I was a young boy, and I got my first bicycle when I was five years old,” Ambassador Marara recalled.
“One of my fondest memories is spending all my time cycling as a kid. I liked watching adults enjoy cycling.”
His journey with cycling became more serious in high school, inspired by an uncle who also loved the sport. “On the days he wasn’t cycling, I would take his bicycle and use it, trying to be like him. It slowly became a kind of fixation because, like many other sports, when you push yourself to do your best to the limits, it becomes like a drug.”
Balancing a demanding diplomatic schedule, Ambassador Marara finds solace and structure in cycling, particularly appreciating the facilities available in Qatar.
“Even when you can’t get out, you can have indoor cycling setups that allow you to have your time to exercise.”
Drawing comparisons between Rwanda and Qatar, Ambassador Marara highlighted the similarities in their sports policies.
“Both countries see sports as a tool to reach national health goals,” he said.
In Rwanda, a monthly car-free day in Kigali promotes fitness and community spirit, a concept echoed in Qatar’s public initiatives.
“I saw His Highness the Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and Royal participants engage in similar activities, which makes me feel there are a lot of similarities.”
Ambassador Marara’s involvement with the Doha Cycling Club, despite timing challenges, keeps him connected to the local cycling community.
“I always follow them on social media and benefit from their extensive information about which bicycle tracks to follow.” He expressed a desire to cycle in the Lusail International Circuit, describing it as “very beautiful.”
The ambassador also spoke passionately about the unifying power of sports.
He recounted hosting a basketball club from Kigali in Doha, where the two teams and their supporters bonded over their shared love for the game.
“You have the impression of two different people as one group of human beings enjoying one similar thing; it’s really a beautiful thing to see.”
This spirit of unity extends to his participation in the Doha Ambassadors’ Football Club, where he values the social connections and family-friendly environment. “Even though I am not a very good player, sometimes I join just to spend social time with my colleagues because it strengthens the relationships between us.”
Cycling, for Ambassador Marara, is not just a sport but a vital part of his well-being and professional life.
“Cycling benefits my health a lot and helps me follow my demanding schedule. Your body is ready for any alerts by being more calm because your body takes enough adrenaline, and you find yourself able to handle difficult situations in diplomatic life.”
Reflecting on Qatar’s ability to host major sporting events, Ambassador Marara praised the success of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
“I was wondering how they could host the entire world in such a small city, and I was worried about the traffic. But when the competition started, I was asking myself, ‘Where are the cars?’ Qatar proved that you don’t need a large country area to host a major event. Qatar made all small countries proud.”
Ambassador Marara’s experiences and reflections underscore the importance of sports in fostering community, promoting health, and bridging cultural divides. His story is a testament to the enduring power of athletic pursuits in personal and professional life.
