Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, Homan drew a stark contrast between the UK’s handling of its agreement with Rwanda and the approach being taken by the current US administration under President Donald Trump.
When asked why the UK was unsuccessful in executing its plan to send migrants to Rwanda, Homan responded bluntly: “They’re not the United States of America. They don’t have President Trump running the show.”
The UK’s plan to relocate asylum seekers who entered the country illegally to Rwanda was scrapped in 2024 after the Labour Party came to power. The party argued that the agreement with Rwanda would not effectively address the growing number of migrants arriving in the UK, and that it raised legal and ethical concerns.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has since faced domestic criticism for having no viable alternative to deter irregular migration, with critics saying his government abandoned the Rwanda scheme without a clear replacement.
Meanwhile, the US has moved ahead with its own deal with Rwanda, with at least 250 migrants expected to be transferred from the US to Rwanda. The move is part of President Trump’s broader immigration strategy, which includes tougher border enforcement and international partnerships.
Asked when the first deportees would be sent to Rwanda under the new agreement, Homan kept it brief: “Working on it,” he said.
Reports indicated that the number of migrants could exceed the initial 250, depending on future negotiations. Importantly, migrants will not be required to stay in Rwanda against their will as they will have the option to relocate to third countries.
“Under the agreement, Rwanda has the ability to approve each individual proposed for resettlement. Those approved will be provided with workforce training, healthcare, and accommodation support to jumpstart their lives in Rwanda, giving them the opportunity to contribute to one of the fastest-growing economies in the world over the last decade,” Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo said.
He made these remarks on August 4, 2025, while presenting the ratification bill for the peace agreement to the Rwandan Senate. The agreement was signed in Washington D.C., United States in June 2025.
The accord includes four key components: the dismantling of the FDLR rebel group, the lifting of Rwanda’s defensive measures, economic cooperation between the two countries, and a political section that commits both governments to support ongoing talks between the DRC and the M23/AFC, as well as facilitation for the voluntary repatriation of refugees.
Ambassador Nduhungirehe emphasized that while Rwanda remains optimistic about the deal, there are still notable concerns, which have also been communicated to the mediators involved in the process.
First, he pointed out that it is not the first time Rwanda and the DRC have signed peace agreements that were never fully honored.
“There have been many agreements signed by the Government of the DRC over the past 25 years, more than ten, but most of them have never been implemented. Many of these agreements specifically addressed the need to dismantle the FDLR and to resolve the long-standing persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese communities,” he said.
The second concern, according to Minister Nduhungirehe, relates to the inconsistency between the spirit of dialogue and the actions taking place on the ground in the DRC.
“We informed the mediators that the Congolese government is continuing to acquire weapons, including drones, and has recently hired new foreign mercenaries from Colombia to replace previous ones from Romania. FARDC [the Congolese army] has also deployed additional troops near areas controlled by the M23,” he explained.
The third concern raised was the conduct of some Congolese officials who, after signing peace commitments, begin to distort the content of the agreements in public statements.
He recalled a specific incident involving Congolese Foreign Minister Christophe Lutundula during negotiations with Dr. Vincent Biruta in Luanda in 2024, where Minister Lutundula committed to providing a clear plan to dismantle the FDLR. But once he returned to the DRC, he publicly denied even knowing who the FDLR were.
He also referenced the recent shift in rhetoric by Vital Kamerhe, Speaker of the DRC National Assembly. “On July 16, he gave a commendable speech supporting peace and called for both parliaments to endorse the agreement. Yet just days later in Geneva, he launched a harsh attack against Rwanda, making numerous unfounded accusations that completely undermined the peace message.”
{{Can mediators hold the DRC accountable?}}
Minister Nduhungirehe said all these concerns have been clearly communicated to the mediators, who have to ensure that the DRC honors its commitments. He stressed that while failure to implement the agreement would be unfortunate, Rwanda will remain vigilant.
“If the agreement is not implemented, it will be regrettable. But regarding our national security, Rwanda will continue to take precautionary measures. Our defense strategies will remain in place until the agreement is fulfilled,” he said.
He expressed hope that the broad coalition of mediators involved in the Washington agreement could influence the DRC’s compliance, especially since many of them hold significant regional and global weight.
“What’s new in this agreement is the number of mediators involved—more than in previous efforts—including actors like the United States, Qatar, Togo, and the African Union Commission. We believe that this expanded and more powerful group of mediators could help make a difference in ensuring this agreement is actually implemented,” he added.
According to RSE CEO, Pierre Celestin Rwabukumba, at least Frw 98 billion was mobilised through the primary market, spearheaded by the issuance and listing of two Treasury bonds under the regular Treasury bond programme.
The bonds recorded a high subscription rate of 246%, which the CEO says reflects strong investor appetite and growing confidence in Rwanda’s macroeconomic stability and fiscal discipline.
Additionally, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) raised Frw 24 billion through the second tranche of its Medium-Term Note Programme, with a subscription level of 171.4%, a strong signal of Rwanda’s rising attractiveness to global investors.
Another key development in July was the approval granted to Africa Medical Supplier PLC to raise Frw 5 billion through the issuance of Rwanda’s first healthcare-dedicated corporate bond. The five-year bond, with a 13.25% annual yield, represents a significant step towards unlocking private capital for the health sector, enhancing access to essential medical supplies across the country.
Mahwi Grain Millers, a leading agri-processing firm, also announced plans to issue a second tranche of its corporate bond, previously listed on the RSE, showcasing how local enterprises are leveraging capital markets to support growth and contribute to national food security.
In the secondary market, trading volumes continued to rise, with investor participation approaching 100,000 active accounts. The month also saw a notable improvement in the REPO (repurchase agreement) market, where transactions reached a cumulative value of Frw 367.6 billion, providing greater flexibility for financial institutions to manage short-term liquidity.
Meanwhile, MTN Group deepened its investor relations initiatives through strategic meetings with the RSE and the Capital Market Authority, focusing on transparency, regulatory compliance, and communication with shareholders.
Reflecting on the exceptional market performance, Rwabukumba, who is also the President of the African Securities Exchanges Association (ASEA), said the momentum seen in July highlights growing investor confidence and the strategic role of capital markets in national development.
“This significant capital is set to advance key national development goals, including capital market deepening while reinforcing investor trust in Rwanda’s sound fiscal policies and stable macroeconomic environment,” he noted.
“As the year progresses, the Rwanda Stock Exchange remains committed to promoting a robust and inclusive financial ecosystem,” he added, encouraging more companies, including SMEs and institutional investors, to explore the capital markets as a sustainable source of financing and wealth creation.
{{2024 performance
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Looking back at 2024, the Rwanda Stock Exchange recorded a total market turnover of Frw 129 billion, marking a 126 percent increase from the previous year. The Rwanda Share Index rose by 15.9 percent, while the All Rwanda Share Index increased by 3.6 percent, signalling steady growth and enhanced investor confidence.
By the end of 2024, the total market capitalisation was valued at $2.7 billion in equities and $1.5 billion in debt securities. Funds raised during the year amounted to Frw 271 billion, circulating approximately Frw 400 billion in the market across listed companies and bonds.
The legislation, comprising 111 articles, was passed on August 4, 2025, following a thorough article-by-article review that lasted several hours. According to the Chamber’s Committee on Social Affairs, which scrutinised the draft, 20 articles were added for clarity while 29 were removed.
Committee chairperson Uwamariya Veneranda noted that one of the most debated provisions concerns assisted reproduction, which will be available to married couples where a qualified medical professional confirms that natural conception is not possible.
Lawmakers also agreed to lower the minimum age for independent consent to some healthcare services from 18 to 15. MP Izere Ingrid Marie Parfaite supported the move but stressed the need for education and preventive measures, including condom distribution.
“Why don’t we put more effort into giving them condoms, which can also prevent diseases such as HIV?” she said.
Several MPs proposed that parents be informed when minors seek certain services, including family planning.
The law also permits the preservation of gametes and embryos for future reproductive use, as well as surrogacy for individuals with medically confirmed infertility, in line with legal and regulatory requirements.
State Minister for Health Dr. Yvan Butera clarified that the provisions do not grant unrestricted access to all family planning services for 15-year-olds.
“The services for adolescents will be clearly defined in the regulations. For instance, permanent sterilisation will not be allowed,” he said.
The bill was first tabled before Parliament on November 5, 2024, before undergoing review by the Committee on Social Affairs.
The United States announced the development following a meeting held on Friday, August 1, 2025. Rwanda was represented by Antoine Marie Kajangwe, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Trade and Industry, while the DRC delegation included an expert in economic affairs. The U.S. was represented by Massad Boulos, Advisor for African Affairs.
The move builds on the Washington Declaration of Principles signed in April and aligns with the broader Peace Agreement signed on June 27, 2025, with the support of the United States.
Rooted in mutual respect, sovereignty, and shared prosperity, the REIF outlines a forward-looking economic partnership designed to unlock investment opportunities, curb illicit mineral trade, and support sustainable development across multiple sectors.
{{Shared commitment to stability and inclusive development
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Both governments reaffirm their commitment to combating the illicit trade of minerals, which has long fueled violence and undermined good governance in the region. By formalising their cooperation through the REIF, Rwanda and the DRC aim to dismantle the economic drivers of conflict and shift toward a future anchored in cross-border collaboration, industrial development, and community empowerment.
The framework recognises the potential for greater synergy with regional and continental bodies, particularly through the revitalisation of the Economic Community of the Great Lakes Countries (CEPGL) and seeks alignment with initiatives such as the African Union’s Continental Power Systems Masterplan.
{{Mineral supply chains
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Rwanda and the DRC have committed to jointly reforming and formalising the mineral sector, particularly in critical minerals such as tin, tantalum, tungsten, niobium, and gold. They aim to eradicate the financing of armed groups through illicit trade and to develop a world-class, industrial mining sector that creates value from extraction to end-user.
Both countries will work toward formalising artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), expanding opportunities for alternative livelihoods, and strengthening transparency, traceability, and professional standards.
Improving cross-border interoperability, particularly in border management, is central to this effort. By doing so, they hope to attract global investment and promote equitable value sharing through industrial development initiatives.
While reaffirming sovereign control over natural resources, both governments agree that communities must benefit directly from the revenues and advantages generated through extraction, processing, and trade. This approach aims to promote a productive, rules-based economy anchored in transparency and local empowerment.
{{Energy cooperation
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Energy is viewed as a cornerstone of industrialisation and regional development. The two countries have expressed their intention to prioritise increased electricity generation and access for both industry and households. They will focus on completing the Ruzizi III hydropower project and sustainably exploiting methane gas from Lake Kivu for electricity generation and transmission.
These efforts will be coordinated with neighbouring countries and guided by the African Union’s Continental Power Systems Masterplan. Where appropriate, the multilateral governance structures of the CEPGL may be used to support implementation.
{{Infrastructure development
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Rwanda and the DRC will cooperate in developing mutually beneficial infrastructure in sectors such as transportation, logistics, and information and communication technology (ICT).
This includes plans for passenger and cargo transport infrastructure, warehousing, ports, and markets. Both governments are keen to attract private sector investment that can catalyse economic growth in the Great Lakes region.
These infrastructure initiatives will be aligned with the U.S.-supported Lobito Corridor to enhance regional and global connectivity and improve access to international markets.
{{National park management and cross-border tourism
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The two countries also plan to collaborate on cross-border conservation and science-based management of biodiversity and ecosystems. A key part of this will be the development of a coordinated cross-border security strategy to address shared threats in protected areas. This includes harmonising enforcement mechanisms and legal frameworks.
Additionally, Rwanda and the DRC intend to build a sustainable cross-border tourism sector by supporting each other’s tourism operators and promoting community-based initiatives. They plan to implement a harmonised tourism revenue-sharing model and standardised policies to strengthen community livelihoods through conservation.
{{Public health cooperation
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Recognising the importance of a united health response, Rwanda and the DRC have agreed to strengthen cross-border coordination to prevent and manage disease outbreaks. This includes collaborative planning and response to epidemics and pandemics, with an emphasis on information sharing to promote scientific research and health-related commercial ventures.
{{Other areas of cooperation
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The REIF is designed as a living platform, allowing for the continuous identification and integration of new opportunities. The Participants are committed to exploring expanded cooperation in areas such as water and sanitation infrastructure, agribusiness (including livestock), education, sports, and entertainment.
They have also pledged to accelerate trade liberalisation and regional integration, ensuring that REIF remains dynamic and responsive to emerging regional needs.
The REIF will be finalised through a dedicated agreement outlining coordination mechanisms for its implementation. Officials from both countries have reiterated that all efforts will be carried out in full respect of national laws and sovereignty.
Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Olivier Nduhungirehe, previously told Parliament that while economic cooperation is a pillar of the Washington peace agreement, separate economic agreements would follow. The REIF now serves as the foundation for those agreements, charting a clear and strategic path from principle to execution.
Since 27 July 2025, MTN Rwanda customers have experienced significant difficulties in accessing key services. MTN appeared before RURA to provide explanations and outline measures to address these challenges.
On 31 July 2025, RURA issued a formal warning to MTN, urging the telecom operator to resolve all service-related issues promptly. In addition to the warning, RURA imposed the administrative fine based on provisions in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Law No. 24/2016.
The exact amount of the fine has not been disclosed.
The penalties aim to ensure MTN improves the quality and reliability of its telecommunications services for Rwandan consumers.
In a related move, RURA also sanctioned KT Rwanda Networks (KTRN) due to fibre optic connectivity disruptions reported on July 30 in Muhanga, Karongi, Rutsiro, and Ngororero districts. KTRN confirmed services were restored and was instructed to implement lasting solutions to prevent future outages.
RURA reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring service providers to protect consumer interests and uphold high standards in Rwanda’s digital infrastructure.
Speaking during the official launch of the facility in a question-and-answer session with Masai Ujiri, co-founder of Giants of Africa and the driving force behind the Zaria Court concept, President Kagame emphasised the power of enabling environments and investing in youth potential as keys to Africa’s transformation.
“In my mind, thinking about the youth of Africa, I don’t think about borders,” Kagame said. “We need to make sure that everything we do translates their hidden potential into reality. The youth are the first asset the continent has.”
The inauguration ceremony, held on the sidelines of the ongoing Giants of Africa Festival 2025 in Kigali, drew African business leaders, creatives, sports icons, and youth from across the continent. Among them was Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote, whom Ujiri praised for championing the African Renaissance initiative aimed at galvanising leadership and economic transformation across Africa.
Construction of Zaria Court Kigali began in August 2023, with President Kagame and Ujiri breaking ground on what was envisioned to be the first of several such hubs across Africa.
The complex now stands complete, featuring an 80-room hotel, multiple restaurants, a rooftop lounge, a gym, co-working spaces, a podcast studio, a broadcast centre, and a large multipurpose arena for sports, concerts, and cultural events.
Outside, the facility includes five-a-side football pitches, a callisthenics area, children’s play zones, and open green spaces. A modular retail park, built from stacked shipping containers, provides affordable space for Kigali’s rising designers, food vendors, and small business owners.
“This is more than a building,” Ujiri said. “It’s an ecosystem. It creates community. It creates value. It shapes economies.”
In the heartfelt conversation with Ujiri, President Kagame shared his personal reflections on sports and leadership, admitting he was never an athlete himself but always saw the value in creating platforms for others to thrive.
“I wasn’t a sportsman by any standard,” Kagame said. “But I was a sportsman at heart, and often thought about what I missed. If I can enable those who can do more and benefit the whole country, then I’m the happiest person.”
He also spoke to the economic impact of sports, pointing to Rwanda’s own experience with the BK Arena and other investments as proof that sports can be a serious contributor to national development.
“This is no longer just about the future. It’s already happening,” Kagame emphasised. “Statistics show that even across Africa, sports can bring in billions to the continent. So, it’s not just a story anymore. The question is whether we choose to be part of reaping those benefits.”
Ujiri, visibly passionate, challenged African governments and private sectors to stop viewing sports as merely recreational and instead recognise it as a business and a growth engine.
“We’re not going to sit down and just let this happen anymore,” declared the former basketball player and president of the Toronto Raptors. “This is a template for Africa, an ecosystem that works. It brings people together. It builds community. And it creates real value.”
He further highlighted how Zaria Court, from design to execution, was a response to the lack of sustained investment in sports infrastructure across African cities.
“In Africa, we have stadiums right in the middle of the city, and they’re all destroyed. They were built 50 years ago with no vision. We paint them before competitions, then leave them to rot. We won’t accept that anymore.”
With plans to replicate the Zaria Court model in cities like Accra, Lagos, Dakar, Johannesburg, and Nairobi, Kigali’s success story is expected to serve as a catalyst for more sports-driven urban development across Africa.
During the event, NBA Africa CEO Clare Akamanzi underscored the economic potential of sports, stressing that nations sidelining it risk falling behind in development.
“Sports should be an economic priority for every country. If you’re not putting sports at the centre of your economic growth, then you’re already playing from behind,” she declared.
Echoing this, Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the Basketball Africa League, said the progress seen in Rwanda affirms the possibility of building a world-class professional basketball league on the continent.
“This gives us confidence that we can build one of the best professional basketball leagues in the world, right here in Africa.”
He made the appeal on Sunday at the opening ceremony of the Giants of Africa Festival 2025, a vibrant week-long celebration of basketball, education, and culture taking place in Kigali.
Addressing over 300 young athletes from 20 African countries gathered at BK Arena, President Kagame praised Giants of Africa founder Masai Ujiri and his team for their unwavering commitment to youth empowerment.
“Masai has invested his passion, his time, his own money and mobilised even more resources to put this festival together,” said Kagame. “Through him, I also thank his family and all the friends of this continent who support this vision.”
In his speech, Kagame emphasised the deeper purpose behind the festival.
“I want to urge you to believe in the giants that are in you,” he told the youth. “Put in time on and off the court. That will bring out the giant in you—and that’s what Africa needs to do. Giants grow. They stand tall. They believe in themselves.”
He added: “Africa should not remain lagging behind the rest of the world. In a small way, through this festival, we are reminded that we can grow and bring out the many millions that Africans are, and continue to make Africa proud.”
The President reaffirmed Rwanda’s pride in hosting the festival for the second time, highlighting the country’s commitment to creating spaces that inspire and uplift Africa’s youth.
“We welcome you. We want you to feel at home and we hope you’ll be back, even for other things beyond this festival.”
The 2025 edition of the Giants of Africa Festival runs from July 26 to August 2, bringing together youth from across the continent under the theme “A Borderless Africa.”
The program includes basketball camps led by NBA and WNBA coaches, leadership forums, cultural showcases, fashion events, and concerts featuring international and African artists.
The opening ceremony at BK Arena reflected the energy and vibrance of the festival. South African DJ Uncle Waffles, born Ungelihle Zwane, set the arena alight with a high-energy set that blended her signature Amapiano hits like “Asylum” and “Yahyuppiyah” with other popular tracks, thrilling the crowd.
A breakout star in Africa’s music scene and a social media sensation, she brought not just music but an unforgettable experience to Kigali.
Also returning to the stage was the Sherrie Silver Foundation, whose young performers blended dance with basketball choreography in an inspiring showcase of creativity and movement. Sherrie Silver, the internationally renowned choreographer and philanthropist, thanked both Masai Ujiri and President Kagame for creating platforms that empower African youth.
Christiane Bukuru, Ruti Joel, and Kevin Kade also delivered captivating performances that kept the audience engaged throughout the evening.
Masai Ujiri, the festival’s founder and President of the Toronto Raptors, delivered an emotional speech, declaring his love for Africa and the youth who represent its future.
“You are the future of Africa. Take it. Take it and run. Believe. Grow. Be better. Make this continent something—and when you make it, stay humble and take people with you,” he said.
Ujiri also reflected on the humble beginnings shared by many African leaders and athletes, reminding the youth that they too can achieve greatness.
“We all grew up in Africa. We wore our pants the same. We walked barefoot to school. If we can do it, you can do it even bigger and better.”
Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, called the festival a dynamic movement of empowerment.
“Giants of Africa is more than basketball, it’s a celebration of African excellence,” she said. “Thanks to President Kagame’s leadership, Rwanda continues to be a place where dreams are nurtured and Africa’s future is shaped with purpose.”
Mukazayire urged the youth to remain proud of their roots.
“Believe in your potential, work hard, and never lose sight of your dreams. You have all it takes, we believe in you.”
Beyond the courts, the festival integrates community service, leadership workshops, and cultural immersion. Among the highlights is the unveiling of new basketball courts through the Built Within initiative and a showcase of African fashion under the “Threads of Africa” event.
Since its founding over two decades ago, Giants of Africa has built basketball courts and launched outreach programs in numerous African countries.
On Saturday, July 26, 2025, during the ministerial session of the 16th Joint Permanent Commission between Rwanda and Tanzania, the two countries signed bilateral cooperation agreements aimed at advancing the agriculture sector and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening overall collaboration.
One key agreement includes the establishment of a Kigali office for the Tanzania Ports Authority (TPA), a major step towards boosting trade between the two nations.
The agreements were signed by Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe and his Tanzanian counterpart, Amb. Thabit Mhamoud Kombo. Both ministers emphasised that the cooperation is driven by shared goals of national development, improved livelihoods, and regional progress.
Amb. Kombo noted that while Rwanda and Tanzania already have several agreements in place, there is a strong interest in expanding cooperation into new areas.
Citing the fact that he and most of his delegation flew into Kigali aboard RwandAir, Kombo said discussions are underway to enable Tanzania’s national carrier, Air Tanzania, to resume direct flights to the Rwandan capital.
“I learned that 90% of our delegation, myself included, came here with RwandAir. It’s performing even better than our own airline. This encourages us, because easing travel is essential to any form of cooperation,” he said.
“Air travel cooperation is still under discussion, and we are working on reviving Air Tanzania’s Kigali flights. The airline previously operated this route but stopped due to various reasons. Now that we have new aircraft, we’re actively exploring its return.”
{{Railway project remains stalled
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The long-anticipated Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) linking Kigali and Dar es Salaam remains a critical infrastructure project for landlocked East African countries. More than two decades since it was first proposed, it is still seen as a game-changer in reducing transport costs and facilitating trade.
The proposed railway would enter Rwanda through Rusumo, pass through Kigali—where Dubai Ports is developing a dry port in Kicukiro—and extend 18 more kilometers to Bugesera International Airport.
An agreement for a 532-kilometer section of the railway was signed on March 9, 2018. While construction has advanced on the Tanzanian side, progress on the Rwandan section has stalled.
Amb. Kombo said that after learning of the delay, he began closely following up with Tanzanian stakeholders, including contacting two ministers to push for the development of a coordinated implementation plan.
He emphasised that the railway remains a strategic priority with the potential to significantly boost trade across the region.
Tanzania and Rwanda also share the Rusumo Falls hydropower project with Burundi, which is expected to enhance energy access and improve livelihoods in the tri-border area.
{{Tanzania is a key trade corridor for Rwanda
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Minister Nduhungirehe described Tanzania as a vital trade corridor for Rwanda, noting that more than 70% of Rwanda’s imports pass through Tanzanian ports.
He added that Tanzania is Rwanda’s second-largest source of imports, accounting for 15% of all goods brought into the country over the past three years.
A functional railway, he said, would further ease the cross-border movement of goods and people and reinforce regional connectivity.
{{Kiswahili teachers to support language promotion in Rwanda
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Amb. Kombo also highlighted plans to support Kiswahili education in Rwanda. He praised Rwanda for being among the few African countries with four official languages, including Kiswahili.
“Rwanda is one of the few nations with four official languages. In Tanzania, we have only two, one of which is Kiswahili, and we are its custodians, along with its headquarters. So, we have a responsibility to do more,” he said.
He announced plans to send Tanzanian teachers to Rwanda to support Kiswahili instruction and to supply learning materials, including textbooks.
The Tanzanian minister also highlighted the continued expansion of Tanzanian investments in Rwanda, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors. Tanzanian firms are involved in building petroleum storage facilities and setting up manufacturing plants.
The two countries also have existing cooperation agreements covering media, ICT, and internet infrastructure.
Discussions during the visit further explored new areas of cooperation, including tourism development, environmental protection, energy, healthcare, and investment promotion.
“The foundation of our partnership is strong, and today we’ve taken another step toward building a future of shared prosperity,” said Amb. Kombo.
Following his commitment to develop infrastructure aimed at advancing national development, in July 2021, the Government of Rwanda granted Masai Ujiri a 2.4-hectare parcel of land located in Amahoro Village, Rukiri II Cell, Remera Sector, Gasabo District, Kigali City.
This land was allocated for specific national interest purposes to accelerate development.
The presidential decree authorizing the land grant was published in the Official Gazette on July 19, 2021, following a request by the Minister of Environment and approval by the Cabinet on June 12, 2021.
Demonstrating determination, Masai Ujiri promptly initiated the construction project of Zaria Court Kigali immediately after receiving the land.
“Zaria Court,” named after the Zaria region in Nigeria where entrepreneur Masai Ujiri—who also holds Canadian citizenship and is widely recognized for his career in the NBA and as former President of the Toronto Raptors—originates, is a state-of-the-art facility in Kigali dedicated to sports, culture, and entertainment.
The Zaria Court Kigali complex, which has been completed at a cost of approximately $25 million (over Frw36 billion), is now fully operational and preparations are underway for its official inauguration.
The facility comprises multiple components, including an 80-room hotel, several restaurants, a rooftop dining and bar area, a gym, office spaces, and a broadcast studio.
Additionally, the complex features a multipurpose arena hosting various sports events, festivals, concerts, markets, and other activities. It also includes a large supermarket aimed at serving both residents and visitors.
The construction of Zaria Court Kigali was officially launched in August 2023 by President Paul Kagame and Masai Ujiri.
Che Rupari, Brand and Compass Manager at Zaria Court Rwanda, recently described the new facility as a versatile hub for sports, hospitality, culture, and entertainment.
“Zaria Court is one of the newest venues in this area, featuring multiple sports courts including football and basketball, event spaces, and a hotel. Our vision is simple: come play, stay, and enjoy,” he stated.
Rupari further explained that the venue can accommodate large gatherings, with a capacity of over 5,000 people. The sports bar comfortably seats 200 to 300 guests, while the basketball court—also a multipurpose area—can host a significant number of attendees.
He emphasized that visiting Zaria Court offers a diverse experience all in one place: whether playing basketball or football, watching a game at the bar, relaxing, or even resting overnight at the hotel.
“This is a venue suited for various events. Whether you’re planning for 1,000 guests, 20 people, or a large crowd, we have the space to accommodate you. Zaria Court is a multifunctional venue ready to host any kind of event.”
“As previously noted, the completed Zaria Court project has incurred costs exceeding $25 million, with potential for further investment.”
He emphasized that sports serve as a unifying force, and through facilities such as basketball and football courts, youth are provided with opportunities to engage socially, collaborate, and initiate developmental projects.
“Our vision was to establish a multifunctional venue where young people can convene, interact, and collaborate—integrating hospitality, sports, and entertainment to foster innovation and creative expression.”
Addressing the financial outlook, he clarified that while profitability is an objective consistent with any enterprise, the primary mission is to empower youth by cultivating their talents in arts, sports, and related sectors.
“We anticipate a return on investment over time; however, the fundamental value lies in creating a hub for connection and dialogue among African youth.”
“We are confident that facilitating such transformative engagement will ultimately generate economic benefits, although our foremost priority remains social impact.”
He reported that the construction phase employed over 700 workers, of whom 30% were women, alongside more than 3,000 casual laborers. Approximately 1 billion Rwandan Francs disbursed to personnel significantly contributed to the national economy.
Post-construction, the facility is expected to provide permanent employment for over 300 individuals across its diverse operational units.
Notably, the site encompasses a historically significant area formerly occupied by Hotel Amahoro, which served as lodging for United Nations personnel, including General Romeo Dallaire, during the Genocide against the Tutsi.
Furthermore, he highlighted that 90% of the construction materials were locally sourced within Rwanda, with only 10% imported, underscoring the project’s commitment to supporting local industry.
