The Giants of Africa festival officially opened in Kigali on Sunday, July 17, marking the beginning of a weeklong celebration of sports, creativity and youth empowerment. President Paul Kagame and Giants of Africa co-founder Masai Ujiri graced the festival grand opening at BK Arena, in a ceremony that attracted over 2,000 youth from 20 African countries. ALSO READ: PHOTOS: Uncle Waffles spins, giants rise: Kigali welcomes Africa’s brightest talents The big was marked by the International Youth Day Forum which was followed by the opening concert headlined by Africa’s finest music stars including South African DJ and producer Uncle Waffles alongside Rwanda’s very own Kevin Kade, Ruti Joel, Boukuru, Chriss Eazy and choreographers Sherrie Silver among others. Did you miss any of the events? The New Times’ photojournalists Dan Gatsinzi and Olivier Mugwiza got you covered. Below are some the key highlights of the festival through their lens: