This archive report was first published on 17 October 2019.
On October 17, 2019, Arsenal defender David Luiz embarked on a visit to Rwanda, marking the latest chapter in the ongoing relationship between Arsenal FC and the East African nation.
During his two-day trip, Luiz met with young Rwandan football players, including those from the Irebero Goalkeeper Training Center, and enthusiastic fans at the Kigali Regional Stadium.
According to Arsenal FC's website, Luiz was impressed by the young talent and showed his appreciation by giving away and signing Arsenal jerseys.
Luiz also met with Rwandan President H.E Paul Kagame at Village Urugwiro and participated in tree planting activities.
He paid homage to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and visited the Volcanoes National Park.
Luiz's visit was part of a £30m three-year sponsorship and tourism promotion deal between Rwanda and Arsenal, aimed at attracting more tourists to the country.
As part of the deal, Arsenal players will visit Rwanda, and the club's coaches will host coaching camps to support the development of the game for boys and girls in the country.
Luiz expressed his gratitude for football, saying, 'I'm grateful and thankful for football because football gives you the opportunity to put a smile around the world.'
