President Paul Kagame on Sunday, August 3, joined Giants of Africa co-founder Masai Ujiri and two-time NBA champion Kawhi Leonard at the Rafiki Club for a special basketball camp that brought together 50 young athletes from across Rwanda.

The event, organized by Giants of Africa, aimed to nurture talent, instill discipline, and inspire the next generation of African basketball players.

“Let me begin by thanking Kawhi for taking the time to be here, connecting with these young people and helping them nurture the talent within themselves.” President Kagame said. “It means a great deal to them, and to us, as we continue investing in our youth: helping them discover what they love and pursue it with excellence. For many, that passion is found in different sports, and in this case, in basketball.”

Founded 20 years ago by NBA Champion and Toronto Raptors Vice-Chairman and President, Masai Ujiri, Giants of Africa has become a continental movement dedicated to educating, enriching, and empowering African youth through basketball. The initiative hosts camps across Africa, builds modern courts, and runs community outreach programs designed to develop both athletic and life skills.

This year’s Kigali camp reflects the organization’s mission of leveraging sports as a tool for youth development and personal growth. Leonard’s participation added a touch of star power and inspiration for the young players, offering them a rare opportunity to learn from a global basketball icon.

By investing in talent and creating pathways for growth, Giants of Africa continues to reinforce the transformative power of sports in shaping Africa’s future.