On September 23, Bank of Kigali (BK) took part in a major moment at the UCI Road World Championships 2025 by awarding the winner of the men's Junior Individual Time Trial U23. The ceremony was led by BK CEO Dr Diane Karusisi, and marked a key point in the bank’s role as an official partner of the event. This is the first time the championships are being held in Africa, and for BK, it’s part of a broader effort to support sports, engage with the community, and showcase the bank’s services to both local and international visitors. ALSO READ: Beyond the race: Turning UCI 2025 into a business boom for Kigali Speaking after awarding the men's Junior Individual Time Trial U23 winner, Karusisi said the bank’s role as an official partner of the UCI Road World Championships goes beyond sponsorship. “This championship is more than a race; it’s a moment where Rwanda’s spirit and Africa’s resilience take the spotlight. Hosting the UCI Road World Championships here shows how far we’ve come, both as a nation and a continent, in shaping our own stories on the world stage,” she said. Karusisi said that being a partner in this historic event reflects BK’s identity — not just as Rwanda’s leading bank, but as an institution that plays an active role in national development. She explained that investing in major sports events is part of a broader commitment to community building. “Sports bring people together, create space for young talent to grow, and help drive local economic activity. That’s why this partnership matters to us, it’s about being present where progress is happening and supporting it.” ALSO READ: BK Foundation, FXB Rwanda, equip TVET graduates with skills, start-up kits At the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, Dutch rider Michiel Mouris was awarded the gold medal and the prestigious rainbow jersey by Karusisi after a dominant performance in the junior men’s time trial. Mouris, already the European champion, powered through the 22.6km course around the Kigali Convention Centre in a winning time of 29:07.61. The silver medal went to Ashlin Barry of the USA, who started 90 seconds after Mouris and delivered a strong ride to finish in 29:14.45, overtaking Belgium’s Van Kerckhove, who got bronze. Beckam Drake, also from the USA, came close to the podium with a time of 29:21.16, while Great Britain’s Max Hinds rounded out the top five in 29:26.52. ALSO READ: Beyond banking: BK backs Rwanda's healthcare goals When asked how the partnership fits into BK’s long-term goals, Karusisi pointed to the bank’s track record in youth-focused sports initiatives. “This aligns perfectly with who we are. Sports teach important values like discipline, resilience, and teamwork — things that help young people grow and push the country forward,” she said. “Through our investments in BK Arena, BAL, and now the UCI Road World Championships, we’re contributing to Rwanda’s growing reputation as a hub for talent and international events.” She added that the bank sees this kind of support as a long-term investment in the future of Rwanda. “We’re not just here for the race. We’re here to build something that lasts — opportunities, pride, and a legacy that stretches well beyond the finish line.
