The National Basketball Association (NBA) and the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) have confirmed that Kigali, Rwanda, will host the 2025 Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa camp. This is the first time the event will be held in East Africa, marking a significant milestone for the region’s growing basketball scene.
The camp will run from August 23 to 26 at the Petit Stade. It will feature 60 of Africa’s top basketball prospects, aged 18 and under. These athletes will train with NBA, WNBA, and FIBA players, legends, and coaches. The program will also cover leadership, teamwork, and social responsibility, preparing participants for success on and off the court.
A Major Step for East African Basketball
Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa, said the decision to host the camp in Rwanda reflects the sport’s growing popularity in the region.
“Basketball Without Borders Africa offers top young players a pathway to reach the highest levels of the game. We are thrilled to bring it to East Africa, where basketball is experiencing incredible momentum,” she said.
Rwanda’s basketball credentials have strengthened in recent years. The country has hosted the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2026 Pre-Qualifiers and multiple Basketball Africa League (BAL) Playoffs and Finals. It also staged the FIBA U-16 AfroBasket youth tournaments, further solidifying its status as a hub for African basketball development.
Kimberley Gaucher, FIBA’s Head of Players Unit, said Rwanda’s consistent investment in basketball made it an ideal host.
“The country’s strong commitment to the sport makes it the perfect venue for this year’s camp,” she said.
Partnerships and Global Impact
Nike, a global partner of BWB since 2002, will provide all athletes with the latest apparel and footwear. Since its launch in 2001, the program has welcomed over 4,600 participants from 144 countries and territories. It has a strong track record, with 142 alumni making it to the NBA or WNBA through drafts or free agency.
From Africa, 14 BWB graduates have reached the NBA or WNBA. Stars include Joel Embiid of Cameroon, the 2023 Kia NBA MVP, Pascal Siakam, a 2019 NBA champion, and Khaman Maluach of South Sudan, drafted 10th overall in 2025.
The Kigali edition promises to showcase elite talent, inspire young athletes, and strengthen Africa’s presence in global basketball.
