Basketball Africa league set to kick-off in Kigali

Rwanda's capital city, Kigali, is abuzz with excitement as it prepares to host the historical Basketball Africa League (BAL) tournament at the Kigali Arena. The tournament, set to kick off this Sunday, marks a significant milestone in the country's commitment to sports development and tourism promotion. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Zephanie Niyonkuru, Deputy CEO of the Rwanda Development Board, shed light on the government's vision and investment in sports infrastructure. With investments in projects such as the Gahanga cricket oval, the Kigali Golf Course, and now the BAL, Rwanda is positioning itself as a hub for sports tourism in the region. Niyonkuru highlighted the importance of infrastructure development in attracting global sports events and tourists to Rwanda. He emphasized the impact of hosting such events on the local economy, citing factors such as increased visitor numbers, extended stays, and higher spending. By investing in world-class facilities and promoting sports activities, Rwanda aims to diversify its tourism offerings and showcase its potential as a sports destination. The Deputy CEO also addressed the long-term benefits of these infrastructure investments, noting that they not only support sports development but also stimulate economic growth. Projects like the BAL are catalysts for local talent development, job creation, and increased demand for hospitality and transportation services. Niyonkuru emphasized that the return on investment from these projects may take time to materialize, but the overall impact on the economy and society is significant. Looking ahead, Rwanda's continued investment in sports infrastructure and hosting major events signals a commitment to sustainable development and global engagement. The success of the BAL tournament in Kigali will not only boost the country's profile as a sports destination but also showcase its ability to host world-class events. As the tournament kicks off, all eyes are on Kigali, eager to witness the beginning of a new chapter in African basketball history.