This archive report was first published on 2 September 2021.
As the world slowly recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, Kigali's sports and entertainment scene has been revitalized with the start of Afrobasket, the biggest basketball event for national teams on the continent, in August 2021.
The two-week tournament kicked off on August 24 at the Kigali Arena, with Rwanda beating DR Congo 82:68 in the first game. Although the atmosphere was muted compared to pre-pandemic events, it was a welcome return to normalcy for fans.
However, the COVID-19 vaccination requirement has kept many away, with attendees needing to present their vaccination certificates. The country's decision to vaccinate 18-year-olds has helped increase the number of attendees.
President Paul Kagame was among the thousands of sports enthusiasts who attended the first game, but the cheers were muffled due to the face mask requirement and social distancing measures.
Unlike sporting events in Europe and the US, where fans attend events mask-free and without social distancing, Kigali's Afrobasket has had to adapt to the pandemic restrictions.
Despite the challenges, the event has given a lease of life to local entertainers, including popular DJs Marnaud and Toxxyk, and celebrated afro-beat musician Bruce Melodie, who has a running contract with Kigali arena.
