Kigali has been officially designated a “UCI Bike City” by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), becoming the first city in Africa to receive this prestigious recognition. The announcement follows the successful hosting of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, a landmark event that brought elite international cycling competition to African soil for the first time.
The UCI Bike City label is awarded to cities that demonstrate a strong, long-term commitment to promoting cycling as a sport and as a key part of sustainable urban mobility, public health, and community development. It reflects cities that are actively integrating cycling into everyday life through infrastructure, policy, and public engagement.
In Kigali, officials point to ongoing investments that have supported this achievement, including the expansion of dedicated cycling lanes, the promotion of car-free days, and increased community cycling programmes targeting youth and residents. These initiatives are part of broader efforts to encourage environmentally friendly transport and healthier urban lifestyles.
The recognition has been widely welcomed by city leaders and sports authorities, who say it highlights Kigali’s growing role as a model for sustainable urban development in Africa. UCI President David Lappartient praised the city for its ability to successfully host a world-class cycling event while also demonstrating a clear vision for the future of the sport beyond competition.
Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire noted that the recognition reflects Rwanda’s wider vision of using sport, especially cycling, to support social and economic development. She pointed to continued investment ranging from grassroots programmes to major events such as Tour du Rwanda, which is helping to strengthen the country’s cycling ecosystem and encourage greater participation at the grassroots level.
According to the UCI, Kigali’s designation places it among a select group of global cities recognised for actively advancing cycling culture and infrastructure. The label is expected to enhance the city’s visibility in the international cycling community and improve its chances of attracting future major cycling events.
City officials believe the recognition will also open doors for technical cooperation, knowledge sharing, and potential investment in sustainable transport systems and sports development programmes. It is expected to further support Kigali’s long-term ambition of becoming a leading hub for green urban mobility.
Mayor Samuel Dusengiyumva emphasised that the recognition underscores Kigali’s dedication to sustainable mobility and improving the well-being of residents, as reflected in the continued expansion of bike lanes, regular car-free days, and active community cycling programmes.
The UCI Bike City status places Kigali within a distinguished global network of cities recognised for their leadership in cycling development. This recognition highlights Rwanda’s growing role as a leading example in advancing cycling infrastructure, strengthening road safety, and promoting active community participation in cycling activities.
The designation is widely seen as a significant milestone in Kigali’s urban and sporting journey, further reinforcing Rwanda’s growing reputation as a global hub for hosting major international events, including sports, entertainment, and more. It highlights the country’s ambition to integrate sustainability, sport, and development into its long-term vision, positioning Kigali among leading cities shaping the future of urban mobility and international engagement.
