Rwanda has steadily built a reputation as a country that embraces international sports championships, positioning itself as a hub for global athletic events. Over the past decade, Kigali has successfully hosted major competitions such as the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in 2016, the FIBA Afrobasket in 2021, and recurring editions of the Tour du Rwanda, which has become one of Africa’s premier cycling races. This track record demonstrates Rwanda’s culture of sports diplomacy, where hosting international competitions goes hand in hand with promoting unity, tourism, and national pride.
The upcoming 2025 UCI Road World Championships, scheduled from September 21 to 28, 2025, represents the culmination of this tradition. For the first time in history, the UCI Road Worlds are being held on the African continent, and Rwanda was selected as the host nation in September 2021. As the Ministry of Sports highlighted, this event will “mark history,” both for Rwanda and Africa, by showcasing the country’s capacity to stage a cycling competition of this magnitude. The roads of Kigali and surrounding areas will become a global stage, attracting the world’s best cyclists, teams, and fans.
During a press conference held in Kigali on September 19, 2025, Rwanda’s Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire officially announced the scale of the event: “We are proud to welcome 919 riders from 110 countries, a record number for any championship on African soil. It is a great source of pride, but also a challenge, because we must ensure that we deliver at the expected standard.” Her remarks underlined Rwanda’s dual sense of honor and responsibility in being the first African nation to host this historic edition of the UCI Worlds.
Government officials also stressed that Rwanda is fully prepared to deliver a world-class event. Minister Mukazayire reassured the public: “We can confidently confirm that we are ready to host this championship, with everything already in place – from infrastructure, team activation, and prepared hotels, to hospitality and communication.”In parallel, Boniface Rutikanga, spokesperson for Rwanda National Police, emphasized the priority of security: “As far as safety is concerned, I am confident in saying that the National Police have put in place the required resources and capabilities, ensuring everything is well, safe, and fine for everyone.”
With these assurances, the 2025 UCI Road World Championships are set to leave a lasting legacy in Rwanda and across Africa. Beyond the competition itself, the event is expected to boost tourism, stimulate the local economy, and inspire a new generation of African cyclists. As Rwanda hosts 919 riders from 112 nations, with Africa being highly represented (38 nations), Europe (35 nations), America (20 nations), Asia (16 nations), and Oceania (3 nations); the world will be watching not only the races but also how Kigali cements its place on the global sports map. This milestone confirms Rwanda’s growing culture of international sports hosting and marks the beginning of a new chapter in African cycling history.
