President Kagame Inaugurates Zaria Court Kigali – A New Hub for Sports, Entertainment, and Culture
Kigali, Rwanda – August 2025 – President Paul Kagame officially inaugurated Zaria Court Kigali, a transformative multi-purpose complex designed to elevate sports, culture, entertainment, and tourism in Rwanda and across Africa.
The high-profile event was attended by Masai Ujiri, founder of Giants of Africa and visionary behind the Zaria Court project, alongside Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire and Zaria Group CEO Andrew Feinstein.
Masai Ujiri Hails Kagame’s Visionary Leadership
In his speech, Ujiri praised President Kagame for being a progressive and strategic leader, noting his rare commitment to using sports as a tool for development.
“When you talk about vision, leadership, collaboration, and building partnerships — President Kagame embodies all of these,” said Ujiri.
“Many young Africans love sports but lack opportunities. President Kagame is among the few leaders who see sports not merely as leisure, but as a powerful engine for economic growth and transformation.”
Zaria Court Kigali: A $25 Million Investment in Rwanda’s Future
Construction of Zaria Court Kigali began in August 2023, following the laying of the foundation stone by President Kagame and Ujiri. The project was completed at a cost of $25 million (approx. Rwf 36 billion).
The state-of-the-art facility includes:
- A modern 80-room hotel
- Multiple restaurants and rooftop dining venues
- A fully equipped gym
- A media and recording studio
- A multi-use court for sports, concerts, and live events
- Dedicated space for cultural festivals, exhibitions, and youth entrepreneurship
- A marketplace and retail area to support local vendors and attract tourists
A Game-Changer for Youth, Culture, and Tourism
Zaria Court Kigali is envisioned as a dynamic hub where sports, arts, business, and innovation intersect. Beyond its stunning architecture and amenities, it is expected to:
- Promote youth employment and entrepreneurship
- Attract regional and international tourists
- Strengthen Rwanda’s creative and sports industries
- Host global events and cultural showcases
The project aligns with Rwanda’s broader development goals of fostering inclusive growth, empowering the youth, and positioning the country as a regional leader in sports and creative arts infrastructure.
A Symbol of Pan-African Progress
As the founder of Giants of Africa and President of the Toronto Raptors, Masai Ujiri has been instrumental in redefining African youth development through sports. With Zaria Court Kigali, his vision takes a tangible form—symbolizing the promise of African excellence when backed by bold leadership and strategic investment.
“This is not just a building—it’s a statement,” said Ujiri. “It tells every young person in Africa that their dreams are valid, that they deserve world-class platforms to shine, and that Africa can build its own legacy.”
Zaria Court Kigali is now open and poised to become one of the region’s most iconic destinations—a space where culture, commerce, and community meet.