Rwanda is about to enter the sporting history books as the first African country to host the UCI Road World Championships this Sunday. Kigali is expecting about 5,000 cyclists and 20,000 fans, and the government has invested in new roads, cycle lanes and even police drills to make sure everything runs smoothly, AFP reports.
For the landlocked East African nation, still often remembered for the 1994 genocide, sport has become a way to reshape its global image. Rwanda has poured money into high-profile sponsorships, partnering with Arsenal, PSG, the NBA’s African league and even making a pitch to host Formula One racing in Kigali.
Not everyone is celebrating, though. Human rights groups have criticised the decision, pointing to Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the conflict in neighbouring Congo. Kigali-based lawyer Louis Gitinywa pushed back, saying Western critics often apply double standards, noting how other controversial hosts like Qatar and Miami escaped similar levels of scrutiny.
Tourism numbers also tell a mixed story. Rwanda’s “Visit Rwanda” campaign raised visibility but hasn’t delivered a huge boom in arrivals. Visitor numbers rose to 1.6 million in 2019 before dipping again to 1.36 million in 2024. Experts warn that while sports sponsorships bring attention, long-term reputation depends more on strong foreign policy than expensive branding.
Still, excitement is building on the ground in Kigali. Some locals worry about traffic disruptions, but many, like resident Jeanne Manirunva, are curious to see what the hype is about. As the world’s top cyclists race through Rwanda’s scenic landscapes, the event gives the country a chance to shine—while also putting its politics under the global spotlight.
