SportaaS, the UAE-based specialist sports advisory and capital platform, and the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore opportunities in sports development and tourism investment across Rwanda. The agreement was signed in Kigali by Derek Stewart, Founder and Chief Executive of SportaaS, and Jean-Guy K. Afrika, Chief Executive Officer of the Rwanda Development Board.
The MoU formalises a framework for bilateral engagement between SportaaS and the RDB, with the objective of identifying investment opportunities that support Rwanda's continued development as one of Africa's leading sports and tourism destinations. Areas of focus are expected to include sports infrastructure investment, club development programmes, tourism facility enhancement and the broader sports economy.
Agreement Overview
The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a structured basis for cooperation between the two parties, encompassing sports infrastructure development, athlete academy programmes, and sustainable tourism facilities consistent with Rwanda's Vision 2050 development agenda. Investment scope and project phasing will be defined as the partnership progresses through feasibility and planning stages.
"Rwanda's ambition is matched by its execution. The country's infrastructure, governance and international engagement are genuinely impressive — and there is a clear alignment between what Rwanda is building and what SportaaS is committed to supporting across the African continent."
Derek Stewart, Founder and Chief Executive, SportaaS
Strategic Context
During his visit to Rwanda, Derek Stewart met with senior government and business leaders and visited a number of the country's sports and tourism facilities — developments he described as reflective of Rwanda's standing as one of Africa's most ambitious and forward-thinking nations.
The agreement with the Rwanda Development Board extends SportaaS's geographic mandate across Sub-Saharan Africa, consistent with the firm's capital thesis that the most significant opportunities in global sports markets lie in under-served, high-growth economies where institutional management has been absent.
SportaaS will continue to build its presence across the East African market in the coming months, with further announcements expected as the partnership with the RDB develops.
About SportaaS
SportaaS is a UAE-based specialist sports strategic advisory, venture development and technology business operating across four integrated verticals: SportaaS Advisory, SportaaS Ventures (multi-club football strategy), SportaaS Labs and SportaaS Legacy (athlete legacy & career development). SportaaS is headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and operates a global mandate with primary focus on high-growth markets in the Middle East and Africa.
About Rwanda Development Board
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) is the government institution responsible for facilitating investment, promoting tourism, accelerating private sector growth and managing Rwanda's natural resources. RDB plays a central role in Rwanda's economic development by creating an enabling environment for investment and enterprise.
SportaaS Enquiries
derek@sportaas.pro
+971 58 198 9421 (UAE) | +44 7949 083474 (UK)