Rwanda bags five-year multi-billion deal to host Africa Basketball league

Rwanda has once again solidified its position as a key player in the African basketball landscape with a recent announcement of a five-year deal to host the Basketball Africa League series until 2028. The country successfully hosted the NBA final for the league, showcasing its capabilities and dedication to growing the sport on the continent. CNBC Africa recently sat down with Amadou Gallo Fall, President of the League, to delve into the details of the partnership and its implications for the investment pipeline in Rwanda and across Africa. The collaboration with the Rwanda Development Board marks a significant milestone in the league's journey, highlighting the commitment and support of the local partners towards the growth of basketball in the region. Fall expressed his gratitude for the partnership, emphasizing the importance of having Rwanda as an official airline for the upcoming chapters of the league. He lauded the success of the league in its brief history and looked forward to building on the momentum in the years to come. The president highlighted the competitive nature of the league, attracting global talent while also nurturing local heroes from countries like Mali, Senegal, and Angola. The upcoming finals and conference games set to be held in Rwanda speak volumes about the excitement and engagement the league has generated in the region. The impact of such events goes beyond the realm of sports, contributing to the growth of the local economy and positioning Kigali as a sports tourism destination. The partnership with the RDB opens up new avenues for investment in sports, creating opportunities for collaboration between the private sector and local clubs to enhance the growth of basketball leagues at the grassroots level. Fall emphasized the league's role in driving economic growth across Africa, promoting sports tourism and fostering a professional environment for the sports industry to thrive. The president underscored the potential for expansion and investment in sports, noting the increased interest from entrepreneurs and investors looking to be part of the basketball ecosystem. The focus on strategic investments and creating an enabling environment for potential stakeholders is key to unlocking the full potential of the sports industry in Africa. The extension of the partnership signals a strong foundation for future growth and collaboration, with a clear vision to continue building on the success of the league. As the league continues to attract interest and investment from various sectors, Fall remains optimistic about the prospects of basketball in Africa and the economic opportunities it presents for the continent. The commitment to developing talent, showcasing skills, and building a sustainable basketball economy sets the stage for a promising future for the sport in the region. With a focus on creating synergies and mutually beneficial relationships, the league aims to attract partners to join in the journey towards establishing Africa as a hub for basketball excellence and economic prosperity.