FIA President and Rwandan Minister for Sport discuss the future of African motorsport
During the FIA General Assemblies week taking place in Kigali, Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) President Mohammed Ben Sulayem met with Rwandan Minister for Sport Richard Nyirihishema and Irena Murewa, Chief Tourism Officer at Rwanda Development Board (RDB).
With a varied agenda to discuss, they shared their thoughts on key developments in motorsport and tourism in Rwanda and across Africa.
Meeting during the first FIA General Assembly to take place on African soil, this week marks a milestone for both the FIA and the Rwandan sporting community, with this collaboration underscoring the growth of Rwanda’s sporting infrastructure, and elevation of the country as an African motorsport hub.
Closely aligned on the shared goals of sustainability, safety, and motorsport, the President, the Minister, and the Chief Tourism Officer discussed current and future opportunities to accelerate motorsport development in Rwanda.
At the forefront of these efforts is the Rwandan Automobile Club’s (RAC) Cross Car programme. Unveiled by His Excellency, President of Rwanda Paul Kagame, and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sualyem during the assemblies, the RAC’s cross car is the first in the world to be built using the blueprints delivered by the FIA to Member Clubs as part of the Affordable Cross Car project.
Designed to further lower the barrier to entry and grow accessibility, the project allows ASNs to build cross cars using locally-sourced parts and materials, reducing the reliance on international suppliers and avoiding significant costs from import duties and taxes.
FIA President, Mohammed Ben Sulayem, said: “To be here in Rwanda for such an important moment in the FIA’s calendar is a testament to the strength of this nation, in particular it’s growing influence in motorsport.
“We are aligned on our values and shared goals across key sectors such as innovation, sustainability, and road safety, and I look forward to our continued partnership. The future of motorsport in Africa is bright.”
Rwandan Minister for Sport Richard Nyirihishema, said: “This step aligns with Rwanda’s values of inclusivity and accountability. We are proud to join the ‘United Against Online Abuse’ campaign and contribute to fostering a safer digital environment in sports.”
During the meeting the Republic of Rwanda also joined the United Against Online Abuse (UAOA) coalition, signing the UAOA charter to indicate their commitment and dedication to the eradication of online harassment.
Founded by the FIA President and supported by the FIA Foundation, UAOA is the leading global campaign in the fight against online abuse in the sporting world
