Nigerian music star Ayra Starr and NBA icon Kawhi Leonard of the LA Clippers are the latest big names announced for the 2025 edition of the Giants of Africa Festival, scheduled to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from July 26 to August 2.
This year’s celebration will welcome 320 youth athletes representing 20 African countries and draw a crowd of over 20,000 people for a week-long showcase blending sports, art, learning, and culture.
Ayra Starr will headline the final concert of the event on August 2, joining a stellar lineup of Afrobeats giants “Kizz Daniel and Timaya” for what promises to be an electrifying performance.
Popular Rwandan singer “Alyn Sano” is also billed to perform at the festival’s first-ever Threads of Africa Fashion Show, which will take place on July 31, adding a local flavor to the celebration.
Kicking off the musical festivities in style, the opening show on July 27 will feature electrifying performances by South Africa’s viral DJ “Uncle Waffles” and MTV VMA-winning dancer and choreographer “Sherrie Silver.” Local stars “Kevin Kade, Ruti Joël, Boukuru, and Chriss Easy” will also take the stage for the opening weekend.
Basketball legend and two-time NBA titleholder Kawhi Leonard is also set to be part of the star-studded festival. As part of his visit, the Clippers forward will take part in mentoring young talents, inaugurate a new court built with Giants of Africa at St Ignatius School, and hold a special skills clinic for 50 underprivileged youths at Club Rafiki in Kigali.
Other high-profile personalities expected to appear throughout the week include “Robin Roberts, Chiney Ogwumike, Didier Drogba, Michael Blackson, Boris Kodjoe,” and several others.
The Giants of Africa initiative, led by ex-professional player and basketball executive “Masai Ujiri,” focuses on youth empowerment through the sport. Ujiri recently discussed the festival’s vision and impact during appearances on “The Kelly Clarkson Show” and “Good Morning America,” highlighting how it brings people together, unlocks youth potential, and fosters change across Africa.
