President Kagame Urges New Sports Ministry Leaders to Drive Revenue Generation through Sports

On Monday, December 23, 2024, President Paul Kagame swore in the new leadership of the Ministry of Sports (MINISPORTS). He emphasized the vital role sports can play in driving economic growth and generating revenue for Rwanda.

The newly appointed officials include Nelly Mukazayire, the new Minister of Sports, Rwego Ngarambe, the new State Secretary in the Ministry, and Godfrey Kabera, the new State Secretary in charge of Finance at the Ministry of Finance and Planning (MINECOFIN).

In his remarks, President Kagame stressed that sports is not just a passion but a growing business. “Sports today is driven by talent, whether from Rwandans or people around the world,” he said. “We must commercialize this talent to generate income, which will benefit both our country and people.”

The President highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to develop sports infrastructure and programs to create more opportunities for Rwandans and boost the national economy. He pointed to significant investments in sports facilities, such as the newly completed BK Arena, which has hosted major events in basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, and table tennis. He also mentioned the upgraded Amahoro Stadium, which now accommodates 45,000 spectators.

“These developments are part of our strategy to make sports accessible to a wider audience,” President Kagame said. “The infrastructure we are building will attract international events and help establish Rwanda as a sports hub in Africa.”

The President also reminded the new leaders of their responsibility to build the capacity of the sector, particularly by mobilizing financial resources. He acknowledged the country’s progress but pointed out that available resources are limited and must be strategically allocated. “The resources we have are not enough to meet all needs,” he explained. “You must find ways to increase available resources and ensure sports development is sustainable.”

While acknowledging the challenges in securing resources, the President urged the new leaders not to let financial constraints hinder progress. He stressed that all government sectors face similar challenges, and that it is crucial to deliver results while finding innovative solutions. “Your roles come with serious responsibilities,” he said. “If no one told you that part of your job is to seek additional resources, then that is something you must take on yourselves.”

President Kagame also highlighted Rwanda’s growing prominence on the African sports scene. The country is set to host the 2025 UCI World Cycling Championship and is working to bring Formula One racing to Africa. In 2024, Rwanda became the first African nation to host the FIA General Assembly, showcasing its ambition to become a major player in the global sports industry.