Giants of Africa unveils 29th basketball court in Kimisagara

Giants of Africa inaugurated their 29th basketball court, aptly named the Kimisagara Dreams Big Court, on Saturday, August 19. The court is part of Giants of Africa's ambitious goal to establish 100 basketball courts across the African continent, fostering basketball talent and empowering youth through sports. ALSO READ: BAL president: Rwanda poised to become an international sports hub The unveiling ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Abdallah Utumatwishima, Minister of Youth; Aurore Munyangaju, Minister of Sports; Pudence Rubingisa, City of Kigali Mayor; Masai Ujiri, Co-founder of Giants of Africa and Vice Chairman and President of Toronto Raptors; Victor Williams, CEO of NBA Africa; and other delegates in Kigali. Strategically located within the Kimisagara Youth Center, the newly unveiled court features both basketball and handball facilities. Beyond the court itself, the facility includes a dedicated spectator area and a well-equipped dressing room to cater to the needs of players and organizers alike. ALSO READ: How Zaria Court will look like upon completion The event was marked by statements from individuals who recognized the positive impact of such initiatives on youth development and community building. Precious Achiuwa, a power forward for NBA's Toronto Raptors, reminisced about his own experience as a camper with Giants of Africa. Several years ago, I was a camper in Giants of Africa, so this is truly amazing. One of the things that Masai mentioned was the aim to build a hundred courts across the continent, and this being the 29th is truly remarkable. It got me thinking about my hometown in Nigeria and how limited our basketball court access was. Having such an ambitious goal is truly incredible because it's about creating opportunities. It's about providing the youth with something productive to channel their energy into. This kind of initiative has the power to transform not just their individual lives, but the lives of their families, their communities, and even their nations. Ultimately, it's about changing the trajectory of the entire continent. It's an inspiring vision, Achiuwa said. ALSO READ: Kagame, Masai laud Giants of Africa Umuganda Day Masai Ujiri, Co-founder of Giants of Africa and Vice Chairman and President of Toronto Raptors, reflected on the journey that led to the transformation of the Kimisagara site into a vibrant sports hub. When we first visited this place to announce the festival in February 2020, it had transformed into almost a Covid-19 clinic. Coming here for a courtside visit was touching; witnessing the people receiving treatment, the nurses diligently working—it spoke volumes about the unity and strength of this community. And now, to witness this very location turn into a basketball court is incredibly heartening. This transformation represents more than just a sports facility. It's a space that can grow into something greater—a place where we can nurture the youth, not just in basketball or handball, but in life. Sports have the unique power to unite people, foster peace, and infuse us with energy. This week in Rwanda has been truly remarkable, and I take this chance to extend my gratitude to the people of Rwanda. You have embraced us as your own, and we're immensely proud to represent you and the entire continent on this journey of growth and progress, he said. ALSO READ: Inside proposed Zaria recreational hub in Kigali Minister Abdallah Utumatwishima emphasized the broader impact of sports infrastructure on youth development. Observing the efforts of Masai and his team in constructing this court, it's evident that they have not only built a sporting facility but also generated employment opportunities. Moreover, their initiative in bringing prominent figures to the youth week and the festival has further contributed to job creation. In essence, they have significantly contributed to fulfilling a crucial aspect of my responsibilities. For this, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. This initiative has provided me with a blueprint on how to effectively organize youth-oriented events, be it a youth month or a youth week. The positive impact of this endeavor on the community is undeniable, and it serves as an exemplary model of collaboration. It aligns perfectly with the objectives and aspirations of our ministries, Utumatwishima said.