Eritrean and Africa’s top cyclist Mekseb Debesay has tipped Rwandan riders to be the best on the continent.

Debesay rides for German-based team Bike Aid and won the mountain climbing category in the Tour du Rwanda. The 23-year-old says Tour du Rwanda winner Valens Ndayisenga and Jean Bosco Nsengimana who finished in second place have potential.

"Everyone that took part and watched the Tour du Rwanda saw their potential, it is hard to beat them, they are like fighters so I believe that Rwanda has a good future in cycling,” Debesay said adding that the hilly terrain of Rwanda works well for local cyclists in races that involve hilly routes.

Although he failed to impress in the Tour du Rwanda winning just one stage, Mekseb had a good season this year winning African road cycling championship and is keen to be the first Eritrean to ride in the Tour de France.