For eight unforgettable days, Kigali became the heartbeat of world cycling. The UCI Road World Championships, in its century-long history, had never before touched African soil. When it finally did, our city was ready. The streets became our stage, the hills our theatre, and the people of Kigali the soul of a spectacle that united nations and inspired millions. PICTORIAL: Kagame graces UCI 2025 closing ceremony as Pogačar retains world title From the first whistle at BK Arena to the cobbled climbs of Kimihurura and Mur de Kigali (Kwa Mutwe), from the bustling corners of Nyabugogo to the vibrant finish at Kigali Convention Centre, the spirit of our city was everywhere. Flags waved, drums echoed, and chants carried across the streets. Kigalians, with unmatched energy and discipline, showed the world that this city is not only the home of cycling but also the home of unity, pride, and resilience. ALSO READ: Tadej Pogačar retains World Championship title in Kigali I will never forget the moment the race commentators saw the fans of Nyabugogo. They fell silent, simply watching. Minutes passed before they remembered their job, and all they could say was, “Wow.” Later, scrolling through social media, the overwhelming remarks echoed the same amazement: “They are good people. They smile all the time. Their country is so beautiful, it doesn’t even look like an African country!” But let it be said clearly. Yes, this is Africa. Africa is beautiful. And Africa is able to do excellent things. ALSO READ: Rwandans: UCI 2025 has whetted our appetites, now we want F1! It is impossible to reflect on this triumph without acknowledging the extraordinary leadership of His Excellency, President Paul Kagame. What the world witnessed was not a coincidence but the fruit of a vision that has transformed Rwanda into a nation capable of hosting global events with excellence and dignity. His guidance has given us the confidence to welcome the world, and his relentless pursuit of progress has lifted Kigali onto the global stage. ALSO READ: Pogačar admits there was ‘lot of pressure’ before victory in Kigali The championships were more than a sporting contest. They were a story of how far we have come, of what it means to belong to a city that is green, safe, and full of life, and of how Africa can rise and deliver on the world’s highest standards. The courage of the cyclists, the beauty of our landscapes, and the devotion of our fans told a tale that will live long in the memory of every visitor, every rider, and every spectator across the globe. ALSO READ: Legendary Burundian musician Khadja Nin ‘so proud’ to witness first UCI World Championships in Africa And yet, even as the final podium was raised under the lights of Kigali Convention Centre, it was clear that this was not an ending. It was a beginning. Kigali Yacu will carry this legacy forward, preserving our iconic cycling routes, inspiring a new generation of riders, and continuing to host events that celebrate not just sport but our shared journey of growth. We stand proud, grateful, and determined. Proud of our people, grateful to our President, and determined to keep writing stories that place Kigali, Rwanda, and Africa at the forefront of history. The writer is the Spokesperson of the City of Kigali.
