Afrobeats star Ayra Starr and NBA champion Kawhi Leonard have joined the all-star lineup for the 2025 Giants of Africa Festival, set to take place in Kigali, Rwanda, from July 26 to August 2.
The high-profile event will unite 320 young athletes from 20 African nations in a weeklong celebration of basketball, music, culture, education, and community empowerment. Over 20,000 guests are expected to attend.
Ayra Starr will headline the closing concert on August 2, alongside other Nigerian superstars Kizz Daniel and Timaya. Meanwhile, LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard will participate in youth mentorship activities, including opening a new basketball court at St Ignatius School and hosting a youth clinic at Club Rafiki in one of Kigali’s underserved areas.
The event also features South African DJ Uncle Waffles, choreographer Sherrie Silver, and local talents like Kevin Kade and Boukuru. On July 31, Rwandan singer Alyn Sano will perform at the inaugural Threads of Africa Fashion Show.
Giants of Africa, founded by Masai Ujiri, is a non-profit initiative using basketball to inspire and empower African youth. Ujiri recently appeared on Good Morning America and The Kelly Clarkson Show, sharing how the festival’s impact is sparking transformation across the continent.
Celebrity guests set to appear include Robin Roberts, Didier Drogba, Chiney Ogwumike, Boris Kodjoe, and comedian Michael Blackson, making the 2025 edition the most star-studded yet.
With a blend of global influence and African pride, Giants of Africa Festival 2025 is poised to be one of the year’s most impactful youth and entertainment events.
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