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A Vision for Sports and Economic Growth in Rwanda
President Paul Kagame recently shared insights into the inspiration behind Kigali’s sports city, a project that has become a symbol of innovation and development in Rwanda. This initiative includes notable facilities such as Amahoro Stadium, BK Arena, and Zaria Courts. The latest addition to this vision is the Zaria Court, a $25 million sports and entertainment complex in Kigali. Built by Masai Ujiri, a former NBA player and founder of Giants of Africa, the complex features sports courts, an 80-room hotel, retail spaces, co-working areas, and a podcast hub.
During the official opening of Zaria Court, President Kagame discussed his thoughts on the development of the sports city. He admitted that he was not a professional athlete but emphasized his belief in supporting others in their endeavors. “I can’t do business, but I can create an environment for those who can, so they can succeed,” he said. His passion for sports, though not competitive, has driven him to foster opportunities for others.
Kagame reflected on how sports have shaped Rwanda’s economy, creating numerous jobs and drawing global attention through its state-of-the-art facilities. He highlighted the importance of sports in bringing people together and creating a sense of community. “If I can be part of a story that brings people together, I am the happiest person,” he added.
When asked about encouraging other leaders to invest in sports, Kagame stressed the need for real examples of success. “Leaders are more likely to invest in sports when they see real, working examples,” he explained. He believes in showcasing what is possible and demonstrating the benefits of investing in sports infrastructure.
Kagame also spoke about the potential of Africa’s youth, emphasizing that he does not think about borders when considering their future. “Africa’s youth are our biggest asset,” he stated, calling for continued investment to help them realize their potential. He believes that with the right support, young people can drive economic growth and development across the continent.
Masai Ujiri praised President Kagame for his visionary leadership and commitment to using sports as a tool for economic growth. “President Kagame has seen sports as a business and economic driver that can really develop a country and our continent,” Ujiri said. He highlighted the importance of sports infrastructure like Zaria Court in building communities and contributing to the economy, which is often overlooked in Africa.
The launch ceremony of Zaria Court took place during the week-long Giants of Africa Festival, which ran through August 2. The event attracted several prominent figures, including Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest man and CEO of the Dangote Group, and Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League. These high-profile attendees underscored the significance of the project and its potential impact on the region.
In summary, the development of Kigali’s sports city reflects a broader vision for Rwanda’s future. It combines sports, economic growth, and community development into a cohesive strategy. Through initiatives like Zaria Court, Rwanda is setting an example for other nations to follow, demonstrating the power of sports in driving progress and unity. As President Kagame continues to champion this vision, the potential for further development and collaboration remains vast.
