President Kagame Officially Opens UCI General Assembly in Kigali as Rwanda Hosts Historic World Cycling Championships

KIGALI – Rwandan President Paul Kagame on Thursday officially opened the General Assembly of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the world’s governing body of cycling, marking yet another milestone in Rwanda’s emergence as a hub for global sporting events. The high-profile meeting coincides with the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, currently taking place in Kigali from 21–28 September 2025, the first time the prestigious competition is being staged on African soil.

The UCI General Assembly brought together delegates, cycling officials, national federations, and sports leaders from across the globe, all converging in Kigali to discuss the future of the sport. Issues on the agenda include the expansion of cycling worldwide, youth development programs, investment in infrastructure, sustainability initiatives, and the promotion of gender equality within the sport.

In his opening remarks, President Kagame emphasized the transformative power of sport, particularly cycling, in uniting communities, fostering tourism, and creating opportunities for young people. He applauded the UCI for entrusting Rwanda with hosting duties, underlining that the choice reflects the country’s growing reputation as a reliable partner in international sports and events management.

President Paul Kagame delivers opening remarks at the UCI General Assembly in Kigali.

“Cycling has become a part of Rwanda’s national identity, and it continues to inspire hope, resilience, and progress,” Kagame told delegates. “Hosting both the World Championships and the UCI General Assembly is not just a celebration of the sport but also a testament to Africa’s readiness to play a greater role in the global sports arena.”

The UCI President, David Lappartient, commended Rwanda for its dedication to cycling development, noting that the country has invested heavily in infrastructure, training centers, and youth programs. He said Kigali’s hosting of the UCI Road World Championships and the General Assembly would inspire other African nations to elevate their participation in the sport.

The assembly takes place against the backdrop of a historic moment in African cycling. Thousands of fans have flocked to Kigali’s streets to cheer on riders from more than 100 countries, creating an atmosphere described by many as one of the most passionate ever seen in the sport’s history.

Beyond the competition, Rwanda has leveraged the championships to showcase its tourism potential, from Kigali’s modern skyline to the country’s breathtaking landscapes. Hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions have reported a significant boost in visitors, reaffirming the Championships’ role in stimulating the local economy.

The combination of the UCI General Assembly and the World Championships cements Rwanda’s reputation as a rising sports destination. It also underscores the government’s vision to use sports diplomacy as a tool for nation branding, youth empowerment, and international collaboration.

As the week-long events unfold, Kigali remains at the center of global cycling, hosting not only the world’s elite athletes but also shaping important policies that will influence the sport’s future for years to come.