From September 21 to 28, 2025, Kigali will host the UCI Road World Championships, one of the most prestigious international cycling events. For the first time on African soil, Rwanda will welcome cyclists, teams, passionate fans, and media from across the globe. Beyond the glory of sports, this event presents a significant economic opportunity that the Rwandan private sector and local communities must seize. While temporary road closures along the main competition routes may affect some businesses, with proper planning and creativity, the championship can generate substantial benefits for sales and the visibility of Made in Rwanda products, leading to economic growth. ALSO READ: Opportunity for Rwanda to shine as UCI Road World Championships comes to Kigali Based on experiences from previous UCI Road World Championships, such events have generated substantial economic benefits for host cities. For example, the 2022 championship in Copenhagen attracted over 100,000 visitors, resulting in a 15–20% increase in local hospitality and retail sales. In Flanders, Belgium, in 2021, the event contributed an estimated €50 million to the local economy over one week. Even smaller host cities, like Imola in Italy in 2020, saw 10–15% growth in sales for food, retail, and artisanal products. These examples highlight the tangible opportunities available for Kigali businesses to boost sales, increase visibility for Made in Rwanda products, and engage with international customers. ALSO READ: Kigali poised to break records: The 7 most viewed UCI World Champs Businesses should begin by carefully adjusting their logistics. Roads scheduled for closure during competition hours will require rescheduling of deliveries and stock movements. The most effective approach is to prioritize night-time deliveries and stock up in advance to ensure sufficient supplies during peak hours. Shops, restaurants, and service providers should plan proactively to meet the increased demand from local customers and international visitors, ensuring continuity of service and preventing missed opportunities. Businesses may also explore creative solutions such as mobile points of sale near race routes or adjusted working hours to maintain smooth operations. Flexibility, preparation, and innovative thinking will be key to turning potential challenges into advantages. ALSO READ: Riders to keep an eye on in the 2025 UCI World road champs The championship is also an ideal platform to showcase Made in Rwanda products. Local enterprises should present the very best of Rwanda’s products—food and beverages, handcrafts, textiles. Quality and professionalism must be prioritized, because every item purchased by a visitor not only satisfies an immediate need but also carries Rwanda’s image abroad. High-quality and authentic Made in Rwanda products will delight visitors and leave a lasting impression of our culture and creativity. With international media coverage and fans seeking souvenirs, this is the perfect opportunity to raise visibility for local brands and demonstrate the competitiveness of Rwandan products on a global stage. For the hospitality and service sectors, the championship offers a unique chance to increase sales and build loyal customer bases. Restaurants and cafes along the routes can prepare special menus, extend operating hours, and offer promotions that attract both visitors and locals. Retail shops can create cycling-themed offers, while hotels and guesthouses can enhance their packages with local products, cultural experiences, or branded souvenirs. Across all services, professionalism and warm Rwandan hospitality will be key to converting first-time visitors into long-term ambassadors for Rwanda. Local residents also play a vital role. International cycling events thrive not only on competition but also on atmosphere. The enthusiasm of the crowds—the songs, dances, and smiles along the race routes—creates a memorable experience for all. Communities should embrace UCI 2025 as a moment of collective celebration. Residents can line the streets, cheer for athletes, and organize safe, family-friendly entertainment along the roadsides. Local artists, cultural groups, and youth associations can add vibrancy to the event, highlighting Rwanda’s spirit. The livelier and welcoming our city is, the more likely visitors are to spend, explore, and return in the future. Ultimately, the success of the UCI 2025 Road World Championships will not only be measured by medals but also by how Rwanda leverages the event for economic and social gains. Every shopkeeper, restaurant owner, craftsman, and resident has a role to play in ensuring the championship is remembered as both a sporting triumph and a celebration of Rwandan enterprise. The government and organizers will continue to provide information on road closures, alternative routes, and schedules to ensure that the private sector is well-prepared. The UCI 2025 is more than a cycling competition—it is a platform to showcase Rwanda’s hospitality, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit. Let us turn every cheer, every sale, and every Made in Rwanda product into part of a larger story: a Rwanda that is open, dynamic, and ready to thrive on the global stage. The writer is the Chief Technical Adviser at the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MINICOM).
