The Ministry of Sports (MINISPORTS) aims to generate Rwf 30 billion from sports tourism and events by 2029, a significant leap from the Rwf 1 billion projected in the 2024/25 fiscal year, according to the Sports and Culture Sector Strategic Plan report. This ambitious target aligns with the Second National Strategy for Transformation (NST2), under which the government has prioritized sports as a talent-based business that fosters sustainable development, economic growth, and social well-being for all Rwandans. As part of the roadmap, the ministry plans to build 540 sports fields nationwide by 2029. This includes 360 fields at the district level, 132 at the provincial level, and 34 at the national level, aiming to expand access to sports infrastructure across all regions of the country. “The infrastructure will prioritize primary and secondary schools, as well as other public spaces, to promote sports such as handball, football, volleyball, basketball, cycling, and athletics,” the ministry notes in the strategic plan. The government has already laid the foundation to help achieve this ambitious target. This includes signing partnerships with major international football clubs including Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, and most recently Atletico de Madrid. These sponsorship deals are part of broader tourism campaigns intended to boost Rwanda’s global visibility and revenue. The country also boasts several modern sports facilities, including the 45,000-seat Amahoro National Stadium, the 10,000-seat BK Arena, Gahanga Cricket Stadium, Gisagara Gymnasium, and stadiums in Bugesera, Nyagatare, Ngoma, as well as the upgraded Huye Stadium, the IPRC-Kigali tennis court, and the Kigali Golf Club. According to Che Rupari, Brand and Campus Manager at Zaria Court, a newly opened multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex, the country has established a well-structured sports ecosystem that is already contributing to economic growth. “For instance our facility comprises an 80-room hotel, retail spaces, co-working spaces, and a podcasting hub. This goes beyond being a basketball court. As the private sector, we see hope of reaching that target,” he said. ALSO READ: Kagame, Masai Ujiri inaugurate $25m Zaria Court Kigali complex Rupari added that Rwandans are increasingly recognizing sports as a viable career path. He urged further investment in world-class facilities beyond the capital city to ensure access to opportunities for talented individuals across the country. Talent development According to the ministry, the sports sector has nurtured 4,553 young athletes through youth development programmes such as the Isonga Project (599 athletes) and the PSG Academy (207 athletes), further enhancing sports education and youth engagement. However, Reagan Ndayishimiye, a sport journalist and commentator, observed that there is a need to invest more in talent detection and development. We still have much to do in grooming talent. This raises concerns among stakeholders both locally and internationally, but it's also an opportunity for investment. Each player represents not just individual potential, but a team of managers, therapists, and agents who can also be employed,” he noted. ALSO READ: Rwanda is setting standard for sports infrastructure in Africa – Masai Ujiri In terms of job creation, the sports industry is projected to grow from 2,625 jobs in 2024/25 to 3,190 by 2028/29. According to Kenny Mugarura, Vice President of United Generation Basketball (UGB), the private sector should play a central role in driving sports development. He noted that UGB, a newly formed club, already employs 25 people, including players and staff. Their investment in Kigali Universe, a sports and entertainment facility, has created over 60 jobs. “Looking at the country’s targets, the private sector can significantly contribute, not just in generating revenue, but also driving the whole economic development,” he said.
