RwandAir and BAL host 3×3 basketball clinic.
Five-year partnership supports BAL teams’ travel.
Event demonstrates commitment to African basketball development.
RwandAir fosters sports and community growth.
Promoting African Basketball
On Friday, May 31, RwandAir and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) orchestrated a landmark event—a 3×3 basketball clinic game between Patriots BBC and United Generation Basketball (UGB) at Kigali Universe. This initiative reflects RwandAir’s commitment to nurturing basketball talent across Africa, an effort that goes beyond just air travel logistics.
Strategic Partnership with BAL
In May 2023, RwandAir entered a strategic five-year partnership with BAL, becoming the league’s official airline. This collaboration involves transporting BAL teams and staff, ensuring seamless travel for the league’s major events, including the playoffs held in Kigali. Such logistical support is crucial for the development of the sport, providing teams with the reliability and efficiency needed for international competitions.
The Impact of the 3×3 Basketball Clinic
The 3×3 basketball clinic served as a practical demonstration of RwandAir’s dedication to sports development. The event attracted a diverse audience, including RwandAir staff, BAL representatives, basketball players, and other enthusiasts. It highlighted the airline’s role in creating platforms for skill development and sportsmanship. The clinic concluded with a thrilling game where the 2021 BAL semifinalists, Patriots BBC, emerged victorious over UGB, followed by a captivating performance by Rwandan musician Juno Kizigenza.
Commitment to Basketball and Community Development
RwandAir’s Acting Chief Operating Officer, Ernest Mushi, underscored the significance of this partnership. “It has really been a fantastic week with high-quality basketball games in Kigali. I thank everyone who attended this event, from the players to our partners at BAL,” Mushi said. He emphasized that this partnership is a stepping stone towards broader goals: facilitating the smooth and rapid development of basketball not just in Rwanda but across the continent. “Through this BAL partnership, we see a clear path to achieving it,” he added.
RwandAir: Excellence Beyond Aviation
RwandAir’s support extends beyond its core business of aviation. Known for its exceptional on-time performance, customer service, and safety, the airline also boasts one of the youngest fleets in Africa, comprising 13 aircraft, including three wide-body Airbus A330s. This dedication to excellence is mirrored in its commitment to social responsibilities, such as the promotion of sports and youth development.
The recent clinic is just the beginning of what RwandAir and BAL hope to achieve. By fostering sports development, they aim to inspire the next generation of African basketball players. The ongoing playoffs, which began on May 24 and are set to conclude on June 1, are a testament to the growing popularity and competitive spirit of basketball in Africa. The finals will see Angola’s Petro de Luanda face off against Libya’s Al Ahly, promising an exciting climax to the tournament.
RwandAir’s partnership with BAL signifies more than a corporate sponsorship; it represents a commitment to community and continental development. Through strategic initiatives like the 3×3 basketball clinic, RwandAir is helping to lay the foundation for a vibrant basketball culture in Africa.
