By JEAN DE DIEU NDUWAYEZU
Kigali, Rwanda – Kigali was alive this past week—not just with dribbles on the court or rhythms on the stage, but with a shared vision: Africa’s youth rising through sport and culture.
From the dusty bounce of basketballs at Club Rafiki to the thunderous cheers in BK Arena, the Giants of Africa Festival 2025 delivered a week-long celebration of hope, talent, and unity.
On August 3rd, Club Rafiki welcomed a powerful gathering. President Paul Kagame, NBA legend Kawhi Leonard, and Giants of Africa founder Masai Ujiri joined 50 youth aged 12 to 17 for a transformative basketball retreat.
President Kagame praised the initiative:
“This is a big opportunity for our youth and for our nation. As we continue to build their future, sports is part of that foundation.”
Kawhi Leonard wasn’t just a guest—he was a mentor, guiding the young players through passing drills, defense, and scoring techniques.
“It’s amazing to see how Rwanda supports its youth,” he said. “This kind of belief strengthens players far beyond the court.”
The retreat capped off a week of basketball clinics and leadership workshops that reached over 320 youth from 20 African countries.
Held from July 26 to August 2, the Giants of Africa Festival carried the theme “A Borderless Africa.” It wasn’t just about basketball ,it was about giving young Africans tools to grow, connect, and lead. This year’s edition pushed boundaries—reaching neighborhoods across Kigali and extending activities into parts of rural Rwanda.
Masai Ujiri, whose foundation has built 43 courts (10 in Rwanda), reflected:
“Some people forget, but I was once one of these kids running around in Zaria, Nigeria. That’s where my fire comes from.”
He commended Rwanda for pioneering a model where sport is seen not just as recreation, but as policy a force for education, leadership, and unity.
On August 2, BK Arena turned into a vibrant stage for the festival’s grand finale concert. The lineup was electric: Rwanda’s own The Ben, Nigerian hitmaker Timaya, afrobeat star Kizz Daniel, and for the first time in Kigali, global sensation Ayra Starr.
With a mix of pride, power, and performance, the night proved that culture is just as vital as competition. It wasn’t simply about entertainment,it was an extension of the same message being taught on the courts: African youth have talent worth investing in.
Whether in sneakers or on stage, Kigali showed what happens when vision meets opportunity.
This wasn’t just a festival ,it was a movement. And it’s only just begun.
