According to The New Times, the project is expected to cost nearly $250,000 (about Rwf 368 million).
The football pitches are among the long-term initiatives that will remain from the Rwanda–Arsenal partnership, alongside several sports development and capacity-building programs implemented over the past eight years.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, said the project aligns with the government’s broader strategy to improve sports infrastructure and nurture young talent through partnerships with major international sports organizations.
“Although our partnership with Arsenal has come to an end, they will still build football pitches in Rwanda. We are currently identifying the areas where they are most needed. This is a great opportunity for us,” she said.
While Minister Mukazayire did not reveal details of additional infrastructure projects that could be developed through other Visit Rwanda partnerships, she said Atlético de Madrid of Spain and the Los Angeles Clippers of the NBA are also expected to contribute to the development of sports infrastructure in Rwanda.
The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) said the Visit Rwanda–Arsenal partnership delivered several initiatives, including the annual Rwanda Heritage Day at Emirates Stadium and visits to Rwanda by Arsenal legends and current players.
Former England international Alex Scott became the first Arsenal ambassador to visit Rwanda shortly after the partnership was launched. She was followed by David Luiz in 2019, Gilberto Silva, Robert Pirès, and Jurriën Timber in 2023, along with other current and former Arsenal players.
Throughout the partnership, Visit Rwanda also gained significant global exposure through advertising at Emirates Stadium and other Arsenal platforms.
According to RDB, Rwanda’s tourism sector has continued to grow since the partnership began, with tourism revenues increasing by 47%.
In 2024 alone, Rwanda welcomed 1.3 million international visitors, generating $650 million in tourism revenue.
