New 15,000 capacity rugby stadium opens in Madagascar

In a development described as a "significant boost for the sport in the region", a new 15,000 capacity rugby stadium has opened in the Madagascar capital of Antananarivo.
Stade Makis, nicknamed by locals as the 'Temple of Rugby', was officially opened by Madagascar President Andry Rajoelina and, although it is primarily designed to host rugby matches, it will also host athletics and other sporting competitions.
The stadium is the first and only one of its kind in Madagascar and includes a new gym, training pitch, and will host the new offices of the Madagascar Union when construction is fully completed in March.
Madagascar currently has 150 rugby clubs and President of the African Confederation of Rugby, Abdelaziz Bougia, said the new stadium means rugby can be independent in the country as well as generating new revenues in the future.
Bougia stated "the stadium is great news for Madagascar. It will give the country the opportunity to express itself through Rugby.
"I'm delighted for Madagascar and also for Africa, it really is a significant boost for Rugby in the region."