Fresh off realising his NBA dream, Rwandan-American basketball sensation Nate Ament has been unveiled as Visit Rwanda’s first-ever Global Basketball Ambassador. The announcement comes just days after the 19-year-old forward was selected 13th overall in the 2026 NBA Draft. Ament was initially picked by the Miami Heat before his draft rights were traded to the Milwaukee Bucks, where he is expected to begin his professional career. ALSO READ: NBA Draft pick Nate Ament says ‘would entertain’ playing for Rwanda The landmark partnership is a continuation of Rwanda’s strategy of using sport to promote the country’s tourism, investment opportunities, culture and sporting ecosystem on the global stage. Born in the United States to an American father and a Rwandan mother, Ament becomes the first individual athlete to serve as an official global ambassador for Visit Rwanda. The partnership will see him represent the destination internationally while inspiring young people through his story of perseverance and success. Speaking on the partnership, Rwanda Development Board Chief Executive Officer Jean-Guy Afrika described Ament as the next evolution of Visit Rwanda’s sports partnerships. “For several years, Visit Rwanda has partnered with some of the world’s most recognised sports organisations to showcase Rwanda globally. Nate represents an exciting evolution of that journey,” he said. “As our first individual global ambassador, he brings a personal story that reflects the values driving Rwanda’s transformation: ambition, discipline, resilience and the belief that talent, when nurtured, can compete on any stage.” ALSO READ: Tennessee coach Barnes sends message to Bucks fans after Nate Ament trade Ament will participate in tourism campaigns, international promotional events, community initiatives and digital content designed to introduce global audiences to Rwanda’s landscapes, culture and heritage. “Representing Rwanda is something that means a lot to me. Rwanda is part of who I am, and I’m proud to share that connection with the world as I begin my NBA journey,” Ament reacted upon this new progress. “I hope to inspire young people to believe that their dreams are possible no matter where they come from, while helping showcase the beauty of Rwanda, its people, its culture and everything that makes the country special.” Beyond destination marketing, the partnership will also focus on basketball development. Ament is expected to engage young players in Rwanda through basketball clinics, mentorship programmes, youth development initiatives and community outreach activities aimed at supporting the next generation of talent.
