Rwanda President Paul Kagame on Monday, July 1, officially opened the newly refurbished Amahoro Stadium, weeks after renovation works on the facility were completed.
The ultramodern Stadium, which has been under renovation since mid-2022, now boasts a seating capacity of 45,000 up from the initial 25,000 seats.
The ceremony was graced by a host of high-level officials including CAF president Patrice Motsepe, local football governing body (Ferwafa) president Alphonse Munyantwari and Minister of Sports Aurore Mimosa Munyangaju among others.
While opening the stadium, Kagame commended Rwandans for their contribution to the stadium’s renovation and credited African and world football governing bodies for their inspiration in the process.
“Let me thank brother Patrice Motsepe of CAF and another brother, FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Both of them inspired us to enhance our sports infrastructure,” Kagame said.
“They have supported Rwanda and other African countries in elevating the standards of African football. At such venues, African children can train and showcase the great talent we have on our continent.”
Kagame emphasised the importance of world-class sports infrastructures of Amahoro Stadium’s caliber in nurturing local football talent.
“This will allow us to raise more talent in our country instead of importing them from abroad. People will go where they want, but we will achieve something significant here because of our commitment. Today is a great day for Rwanda and football, and we will continue to improve,” the head of state noted.
“We must work hard and smart so that we are counted among the best on our continent,” he added.
A fortnight ago, world football governing body, FIFA, approved Amahoro Stadium to host international football events after a thorough inspection by CAF experts.
- By Times Sports.