Kigali, Rwanda — President Paul Kagame officially opened Zaria Court, a state-of-the-art indoor basketball arena located in the heart of Kigali. This momentous event, which coincided with the Giants of Africa Festival, highlighted the growing importance of sports as a tool for social change and economic growth across Africa.

Located near iconic landmarks such as BK Arena and Amahoro National Stadium, the Zaria sports and lifestyle complex is an all-encompassing development aimed at supporting athletic excellence, community engagement, and tourism in Rwanda. The complex features top-tier sports facilities, including basketball courts, tennis courts, and football fields, along with hotels and green spaces for visitors and locals to enjoy.

In his address, President Kagame shared his personal connection to sports and its profound impact on society.

“Although I was never a professional athlete, I’ve always considered myself a sportsman at heart,” said President Kagame. “Sports are not just about competition; they have the power to build stronger communities, foster unity, and improve lives.”

Zaria Court is a key part of Rwanda’s broader vision to build a dedicated sports city in Kigali, designed to become a regional hub for sports events, training, and youth development. Kagame emphasized that the project is just the beginning of a larger, ongoing effort to grow Rwanda’s sports infrastructure.

“This is just the start of our journey. We are building a sports city, and we will continue to expand and develop it,” Kagame declared.

President Kagame also highlighted the economic potential of sports in Africa, citing statistics that show the sector generates billions of dollars annually across the continent. He called on leaders at all levels to recognize the opportunities sports can create for young people and their communities.

“When people see tangible results and progress, they begin to believe in the possibilities. And once they believe, they become active participants in driving that progress,” he added.

The Giants of Africa Festival, founded by Masai Ujiri, aims to inspire the next generation of African athletes and leaders by offering mentorship, training, and exposure to opportunities in sports. Zaria Court’s opening reinforces Kigali’s role as a growing hub for sports development, fostering both local and international talent.

With the launch of Zaria Court, Rwanda continues to invest in sports as a key driver of national development and youth empowerment, while positioning Kigali as a leader in Africa’s sports renaissance.