President Paul Kagame on Sunday, August 3, joined NBA star Kawhi Leonard and Giants of Africa founder Masai Ujiri at a youth basketball camp held at Club Rafiki in Nyamirambo, Kigali, where he praised the ongoing efforts to nurture young African talent through sport.
The camp, part of the Giants of Africa (GOA) Festival, brought together 50 aspiring basketball players aged 12 to 17 for a day of intensive skill development, focusing on dribbling, shooting, and passing.
“Let me begin by thanking Kawhi for taking the time to be here, connecting with these young people and helping them nurture the talent within themselves,” President Kagame said.
“It means a great deal to them, and to us, as we continue investing in our youth: helping them discover what they love and pursue it with excellence.”
The Rwandan presidency said Kagame noted the transformation of GOA’s programming since its early days, commending its growth and lasting impact.
“I remember we were here at the beginning of this, and the way it has been growing day by day, year by year, is very impressive,” he said.
“It has had an impact in the lives of these young people and others who are not here.”
Leonard, a two-time NBA champion and star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, arrived in Kigali on July 31 to take part in the festival, which assembled 320 youth from 20 African countries.
Speaking at the camp, Leonard reflected on his first-ever visit to Africa.
“It’s been great being here and seeing how supportive Rwanda is. That’s truly inspiring to the young athletes. I thank everyone who made this possible,” he said.
According to the New Times, Kagame extended a warm invitation for Leonard’s return, declaring, “Rwanda, Kigali is your home. You're welcome here anytime, and we hope to see these activities again.”
The visit coincided with the unveiling of three new outdoor basketball courts at Saint Ignatius School in Kibagabaga on Saturday, August 2.
The courts, designed by Leonard, form part of Giants of Africa’s ongoing commitment to build 100 courts across the continent.
The colourful courts bear the motivational phrase “You’re stronger than you think,” a mantra Leonard says has guided him throughout his career.
At the unveiling ceremony, Leonard said, “It’s my first time in Africa, but definitely not my last. To the youth, you have all it takes. Don’t make any excuses. Enjoy and make use of these courts.”
Masai Ujiri, who co-founded Giants of Africa and has long advocated for youth empowerment through sport, praised Rwanda’s commitment to the initiative.
The launch also drew Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire, who hailed the GOA vision as a testament to Africa’s potential.
“Youth, you are the present and the future of Africa,” she told the gathering. “I thank Masai and Kawhi for being part of this great mission. Remember, you are never too young to be responsible.”
Father Innocent Rugaragu, Headmaster of Saint Ignatius School, called the new courts “one of the greatest gifts” the school has ever received.
“This gift adds to our commitment to quality education by enhancing our sports capabilities,” he said. “So, sports ministers should be ready for the rollout of many future athletes.”
With the new additions in Kibagabaga, Giants of Africa has now unveiled 10 outdoor courts across Rwanda.
The journey began in 2022 with the refurbishment of Club Rafiki’s court, followed by courts in Rwamagana, Nyarugenge, Rubavu, Huye, and Rusizi districts under the “Built Within” initiative.
For youth like Joyeuse Ikirezi, a student at Saint Ignatius, the courts represent more than infrastructure.
“They’re symbols of ambition,” she said. “Now it's our responsibility to make the most of them and develop our basketball skills.”
As GOA continues to blend sport, mentorship, and community development across the continent, the Kigali stop — marked by Leonard’s presence and Kagame’s endorsement — underscored the power of sport to shape futures, build communities, and unlock the potential of Africa’s youth.
