Here’s your guide to the Giants of Africa Festival 2025, offering practical info and tips to help you plan your visit and participate in this major cultural and sporting event.
Dates & Location
Giants of Africa Festival 2025 runs from July 26 to August 2, 2025, in Kigali, Rwanda.
Venue Highlights
- BK Arena, Amahoro National Stadium, Petit Stade, and Paralympic Gymnasium
- Zaria Court sports and culture hub will open during the festival
All sites are within Kigali Sports City, facilitating easy movement across venues.
Map & Transport
- Festival areas are clustered in Kigali Sports City, northwest of downtown Kigali.
- Local taxis and ride-hailing apps (Yego, SafeBoda) are readily available.
- Shuttle buses may run between major venues; check the festival website for the latest routes.
Tickets & Prices
- Opening Show and Closing Concert tickets went on sale May 8, 2025, at 15:00 CAT.
- Payment options include standard, VIP, and corporate packages via GOAFestival.org or by emailing info@giantsofafrica.org.
- Youth camps and clinics require advance registration; spectator events are open to all.
Daily Schedule Overview
Here’s what to expect each day:
| Date | Event | Time | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| July 26 | Opening Show & Parade | Evening | BK Arena |
| July 27–31 | Basketball Clinics and Camp | Morning–Afternoon | Petit Stade, Paralympic Gym |
| July 30 | Threads of Africa Fashion | Evening | Petit Stade |
| July 31 | Youth Basketball Games | Afternoon | Petit Stade |
| Aug 2 | Closing Concert | Evening | Amahoro Stadium |
The schedule may evolve—check the official site for updates.
Lineup & Special Guests
Key appearances include:
- Masai Ujiri (founder) leading programming and mentorship sessions
- Ayra Starr, Kizz Daniel, and Timaya at Closing Concert
- Uncle Waffles, Sherrie Silver, and Kevin Kade, among others, featured during the opening show.
- Sporting icons Kawhi Leonard and Candace Parker leading clinics
- Celebrities like Didier Drogba, Chiney Ogwumike, Robin Roberts to attend
Masai Ujiri’s Role & Festival Mission
Masai Ujiri launched Giants of Africa in 2003 to empower African youth through sports and life skills (Wikipedia). The 2025 festival brings together 320 young athletes from 20 countries, promoting empowerment, leadership, and gender equality.
Masai Ujiri emphasizes diversity, careers beyond sports, and female inclusion—campers include boys and girls with equal access to resources.
Basketball & Youth Development
- Daily clinics by NBA/WNBA coaches plus local staff
- Clinics are paired with life-skills workshops covering leadership, career paths, and personal growth
- National team tournaments, all-star matches, and basketball celebrations will highlight youth talent.
Threads of Africa Fashion Show
Set for July 30, this event celebrates African fashion and culture. Designers include:
- Hortense Mbea (Cameroon)
- Alia Baré (Niger)
- Nyambo (Rwanda/South Africa)
It blends creativity, runway artistry, and cultural dialogue under the festival theme of empowerment.
Entertainment & Music
- Opening Show electrified by Uncle Waffles, Sherrie Silver, Kevin Kade
- The closing concert features top Afrobeats stars and Rwandan artists
- Expect dynamic performances, cultural dance, and live music showcasing Africa’s creative diversity.
Tips for Attendees
- Book tickets early—popular shows sell out fast
- Register for camps and clinics in advance to secure a spot and gear
- Plan your transport—rideshare or shuttle options can help you move between venues
- Pack essentials: sun protection, water, comfy shoes, and backup phone battery
- Engage respectfully with players, coaches, and performers
- Stay informed through the Giants of Africa website and email updates
Why Attend Giants of Africa Festival 2025?
- Connect with 320 young athletes from across Africa
- Gain mentorship from NBA and WNBA professionals
- Watch headline music acts and a major fashion show
- See Kawhi Leonard in action and Candace Parker on and off the court.
- Experience a cultural ecosystem promoting mental wellness, gender inclusion, and leadership
Final Checklist
- Purchase Opening/Closing Show tickets online before May 8
- Register early for youth basketball clinics
- Book accommodations near Kigali Sports City
- Organize transport using ride-sharing apps or festival shuttles
- Monitor the schedule—sources will update lineups and timings
Attending the Giants of Africa Festival 2025 gives you access to sport, culture, and youth empowerment all in one event. Will you join Masai Ujiri and global talents in Kigali this July and August?
