President Paul Kagame has praised American NBA star Kawhi Leonard for his impactful visit to Rwanda, where he has been participating in youth basketball development activities organized by the Giants of Africa foundation.

The President made these remarks on Sunday, August 3, 2025, during a visit to Club Rafiki in Kigali, where Leonard and Giants of Africa founder Masai Ujiri were engaging with Rwandan youth learning basketball skills.

“Let me begin by sincerely thanking Kawhi for taking the time to be here, connecting with this youth and helping them grow their talents,” President Kagame said.
“It means a lot to them—and to us—as we continue investing in our youth, helping them discover their passions and pursue them at the highest level. For many, that passion lies in sports, and as we see here, in basketball.”

Kawhi Leonard, a two-time NBA champion currently playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, arrived in Rwanda on August 1, 2025. He previously won NBA titles with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014 and the Toronto Raptors in 2019, the latter under the leadership of Masai Ujiri.

Leonard’s visit is part of the ongoing Giants of Africa program aimed at empowering African youth through sport, especially basketball, by providing training, mentorship, and opportunities for self-discovery and growth.