At the inauguration of the renovated Amahoro Stadium, President Kagame urged young footballers to work hard and aim for Rwanda to be among the best in Africa.
The Head of State made these remarks on the evening of Monday, July 1, 2024, while inaugurating the newly refurbished Amahoro Stadium. The stadium underwent a significant two-year facelift that began in mid-2022.
Addressing over 45,000 attendees at the inaugural match between the Rwanda Army football team ‘APR FC’ and the Rwanda police team ‘Police FC,’ President Kagame thanked African and global football leaders for their support.
He acknowledged their contributions in providing facilities that allow young African talents to develop and showcase their skills locally.
“This will help preserve many talents locally rather than having to seek opportunities elsewhere,” said President Kagame. “People will remain free to go wherever they want, but they can also look to home for the retention and development of their talents.”
He encouraged the young generation, saying, “There’s no excuse for our young footballing talent. You have to work hard, you have to work smart, and let’s be counted among the best in our continent.”
The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, echoed these sentiments.
He expressed his desire to see Rwanda’s national football team compete at higher levels.
“This is one of the most beautiful and best stadiums in Africa and the world. We, as Rwandese, we, as Africans, should be so proud and thank our President for his leadership and building the best stadium. The next time I come here, I want to see the National team of Rwanda playing against the best national teams in Africa,” Dr. Motsepe said.
He also thanked President Kagame for his commitment to improving the lives of Rwandans. “Thank you for your commitment, love, and sacrifices to make the lives of our people in Rwanda among the best in Africa. This beautiful stadium is a reflection of your love and commitment to Rwanda and its people.”
The inauguration of the ultra-modern 45,000-seat facility was initially slated for July 4, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Rwandan Liberation Day. However, the Ministry of Sports moved the event to July 1 to avoid scheduling conflicts.
“We decided to separate the two events to avoid having them on the same day,” Zephanie Niyonkuru, the Permanent Secretary of MINISPORTS, told the New Times on Friday, June 28.
Located in Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, Amahoro Stadium first opened in 1986. The transformation project, led by Turkish company Summa and Rwandan construction firm Real Contractors, increased the stadium’s capacity from 25,000 to 45,508. The stadium is situated next to BK Arena, a 10,000-seat facility that opened in the summer of 2019 as the largest indoor arena in East Africa.