Giants of Africa, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering African youth through basketball, together with its founder Masai Ujiri—Vice-Chairman and President of the Toronto Raptors—has announced that the Giants of Africa Festival 2025 will return to the city of Kigali from July 26 to August 2.
The event will bring together 320 young athletes from 20 African nations and more than 20,000 spectators for a week of community, culture, basketball, education, and entertainment.
The festival will kick off with an exhilarating Opening Show, where the athletes will unite in an inspiring parade to begin the weeklong celebration.
According to the organizers, South African international DJ sensation Uncle Waffles, award-winning choreographer Sherrie Silver, and Rwandan singer Kevin Kade will deliver electrifying performances as Masai Ujiri and special guests officially open the festivities.
Taking place across Kigali Sports City’s BK Arena, Amahoro National Stadium, Petit Stade, and the Paralympic Gymnasium, the festival will showcase the full potential of Africa’s sports and entertainment ecosystem—highlighting its social and economic value for the next generation and the continent at large.
The 2025 edition will also mark the grand opening of Zaria Court.
Founded by Ujiri, this new mixed-use sports, entertainment, and cultural district will feature an 80-room hotel, a sports bar, a basketball court, an event space, retail outlets, a gym, a five-a-side football pitch, and outdoor public areas.
“Like these kids, I grew up on the continent,” says Ujiri. “As Africans, we understand the challenges our youth face. We know they dream just like we did—and that really inspires me. These kids have even more talent and intelligence. They now have ways to communicate that we didn’t. This festival is about showing them there is a path. We want them to never stop dreaming.”
The festival will conclude with a high-energy Closing Concert featuring performances by Nigerian Afrobeats star Kizz Daniel and award-winning Nigerian singer Timaya.
Celebrity guests expected throughout the week include Chris Tucker, Candace Parker, Robin Roberts, Chiney Ogwumike, Didier Drogba, Michael Blackson, Boris Kodjoe, and more.
Since 2003, Giants of Africa has empowered youth through basketball by hosting camps and building courts in 20 African countries.
The foundation not only teaches the fundamentals of the game but also connects young people with inspirational mentors who demonstrate how determination, leadership, and integrity can turn dreams into reality. Central to their mission is basketball’s unique ability to transcend barriers and unite diverse communities.