Burundi has become the sixth African country to join the international rugby league community ©Burundi Rugby League

Burundi has become the sixth African country to join the international rugby league community after being accepted as an observer of the European governing body.

The Rugby League European Federation (RLEF) oversees the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region where rugby league is still a developing sport.

South Africa, a rugby union powerhouse, were the first country from Africa to join and they were followed by Morocco, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Ethiopia.

It is hoped that despite modest beginnings, teams from the MEA region will help with rugby league's international development and aid the ambition of Olympic recognition.

"Burundi's inclusion strengthens the MEA region which will, in turn, aid our bid to become a sport recognised by the International Olympic Committee," said Remond Safi, the RLEF's MEA director.

Jean Du Christ Rusiga hopes the sport can aid peace and development in Burundi
Jean Du Christ Rusiga hopes the sport can aid peace and development in Burundi ©Getty Images

More countries are now working with Safi to join the fold, with Burundi's acceptance only on a provisional basis.

The country has been asked to adopt a different legal entity structure within a year.

"We believe that rugby league can be a promoter of peace and development in Burundi and even within Africa itself," said Burundi Rugby League President Jean Du Christ Rusiga.

"If we get together with our partners around the continent and work with them, there will be more and more opportunities for the sport."