The first African Cycling Awards were held on Saturday 29 November at Zaria Hotel in Kigali, a landmark moment for the continent’s growing cycling community and a strong show of East African influence in the sport.
The event was organised by Fred Kamuzinzi, a long serving Tour du Rwanda organiser who said he developed the idea after Rwanda hosted a UCI event in September. He explained that cyclists put in the work and deserve formal recognition, a message that shaped the tone of the ceremony.
Eritrean star Biniam Girmay took the Men’s Elite title, confirming his position at the top of African cycling for 2025 and extending Eritrea’s dominance across the major categories. The country also won the Nation Award, underlining the depth of its development system.
Uganda had its own moment on the stage after Kagimu was named Best Male Cyclist in East Africa. The result was welcomed by Samuel, the president of Uganda Cycling, who congratulated Kagimu and praised Rwanda for its continued investment in the sport. He also thanked Kamuzinzi for delivering a continental level event that brought together athletes, technical officials, and administrators.
The president of Rwanda Cycling, Samson, used his remarks to thank everyone who has contributed to the discipline’s growth. His comments reflected the country’s sustained effort to position Kigali as a regional cycling hub.
The president of the African Cycling Confederation also addressed the ceremony. He thanked Rwanda’s state minister of sports for the country’s backing and presented him with an appreciation award for support to cycling.
Diplomats, ambassadors, and senior Rwandan officials attended the ceremony, which organisers plan to develop into an annual celebration of the continent’s best performers.
