Giants of Africa Festival Ends in Kigali with Power and Passion as Ayra Starr Performs in Rwanda for the First Time

Giants of Africa Festival 2025 wrapped up in Kigali with an unforgettable night of music, energy, and celebration that brought together thousands of people from Rwanda and beyond. The final concert, held at BK Arena, was headlined by Nigerian stars Ayra Starr, Kizz Daniel, Timaya, and Rwanda’s own The Ben. Showing how powerful music and culture can be in connecting and inspiring young people across Africa. But this festival was about much more than just music. For a whole week, Kigali was the heart of a vibrant celebration of African youth, talent, and potential. Through basketball, leadershi

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The festival was organized by Masai Ujiri, Co-founder of Giants of Africa. Since 2003, the dream was to use basketball and community building to uplift youth in Africa. So far, the organization has built 43 basketball courts across the continent, including 10 in Rwanda. On the final day of this year’s festival, Masai Ujiri was joined by NBA star Kawhi Leonard and Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, to open three new courts at St Ignatius School in Kibagabaga.

[Kigali, Rwanda 02 August,2025], Masai Ujiri, Kawhi Leonard, and Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, officially inaugurate three newly built basketball courts at St Ignatius School in Kibagabaga. The Giants of Africa foundation has now constructed 43 courts across Africa, including 10 in Rwanda. Photo by Igihe

Music and unity light up the final night

The closing concert was more than a show, it was a celebration of African pride and youthful spirit. Thousands of fans filled the BK Arena, dancing, singing, and waving their phone lights as each artist performed. Rwandan singer The Ben opened the show with his hit “Habibi,” receiving loud cheers from the crowd. DJ Senshi, a Rwandan female DJ, followed with vibrant mixes that got people dancing and excited for what was next. This was her first time on such a big stage, and she made Rwanda proud.

[Kigali, Rwanda 02 August, 2025] The Ben, Rwandan legend artist opens the vibrant performances at BK Arena, during closing concert of Giants of Africa 2025 festival. Photo by Shutter.click

Nigerian music legend Timaya came next, performing songs like “Balance,” “Cold Outside,” and “I Like the Way,” keeping everyone on their feet. Then came Kizz Daniel, and the energy in the arena soared. Before he appeared, fans lit up the venue with their phones in anticipation. He entered with “Mama” and performed a full live set, blending music and tradition, including a moment with traditional Rwandan drums and a performance by famous Rwandan choreographer Sherrie Silver. But it was Ayra Starr’s first-ever performance in Rwanda that truly closed the night with magic. The 22-year-old star opened with her hit “Bloody Samaritan” and quickly connected with fans, asking, “Kigali, how are you feeling?” She performed favorites like “Rush,” “Away,” “Commas,” and “Gimme Dat,” a collaboration with Wizkid. Before singing her latest track “Hot Body,” she invited young people who feel proud of their bodies to join her on stage and celebrate self-love. Ayra’s performance was filled with energy, dance, and emotion, showing why she’s become one of Africa’s most beloved young artists.

A festival of purpose

The Giants of Africa Festival is more than entertainment. It’s about giving young people across Africa the belief that they matter, that they have talent, and that they can shape the future. Whether through sports, music, dance, or leadership, this festival creates a space where African youth can shine and be proud of who they are.