Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has congratulated President Paul Kagame and the people of Rwanda on securing a 10-year agreement to host the Formula 1 African Grand Prix, becoming the second African head of state to publicly welcome the announcement after South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In a message shared on X, Hichilema described the agreement as a milestone not only for Rwanda but for the entire continent.
“Congratulations to my brother, President Paul Kagame and the people of Rwanda on securing the Formula 1 African Grand Prix. This historic achievement reflects your resilience, vision, and smart hard work,” Hichilema wrote.
“Zambia shares your pride in this milestone for Rwanda and Africa,” he added.
His remarks followed those of Ramaphosa, who congratulated Rwanda and offered South Africa’s experience and support as Formula 1 prepares to return to Africa for the first time since the 1993 South African Grand Prix at Kyalami.
Responding to Ramaphosa, Kagame welcomed the offer of collaboration.
“We look forward to working with you and all who share this vision as we make this a truly African Grand Prix in every way possible, and take motorsport to new heights on our continent,” Kagame said.
The announcement has generated considerable excitement across Africa, with supporters celebrating Rwanda’s achievement as a continental milestone and an opportunity to expand tourism, investment, employment and technical expertise.
However, it has also attracted criticism, particularly over the financial implications of hosting Formula 1 and competing priorities for public investment. Although supportive reactions have been prominent, there is no comprehensive measure of public opinion across the continent.
South Africa had also been pursuing its own Formula 1 bid, highlighting the growing competition among African countries to attract major international sporting events.
Rwanda’s agreement, announced in Kigali on October 13, provides for a Grand Prix beginning in the early 2030s at a purpose-built circuit in Bugesera, approximately 40 kilometres south of Kigali.
The proposed 6-kilometre track will feature 17 corners and significant elevation changes, forming part of a wider development near the new Kigali International Airport.
Kagame has presented the project as an opportunity for Africa to become more actively involved in international motorsport, including through investment, technical training and business development.
“We want to contribute, not just participate,” he said during the announcement.
With Hichilema joining Ramaphosa in publicly congratulating Rwanda, the project is attracting diplomatic support beyond the host country, reinforcing its ambition to become a continental sporting event.
