In Kigali, where the heartbeat of Africa’s hills meets the rhythm of the world, history and legacy walked side by side. On the sidelines of the UCI 2025 Road World Championship, a different light broke through, the gleam of the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Trophy, a beacon of unity and the pride of a continent.
With TotalEnergies standing tall as the official sponsor of both CAF and the UCI World Championship, Rwanda Football Federation stepped forward, represented with grace by FERWAFA Vice President in charge of Administration and Finance, Mrs. Claudine Gasarabwe. At her side stood legends who carry Rwanda’s football memory, Jimmy Mulisa and Nibagwire Sifa Gloria, their presence bridging generations, their hands guiding a trophy that tells stories beyond words.
The air in Kigali carried names etched in African football’s golden pages, CAF Ambassadors Karim Haggui (AFCON 2004 Champion) soon to be joined by Rwanda’s own heartbeat, Haruna Niyonzima and Alice Niyoyita, who will preside over the next stop of the Trophy Display on Tuesday 23rd September at the TotalEnergies Petrol Station.
Standing before the gathered crowd, Mrs. Gasarabwe spoke with a voice both humble and proud:
“This is more than a trophy. It is a reminder of Africa’s journey, our solidarity, and the dream we carry to lift football ever higher. Rwanda is honored to be part of this story, and we thank TotalEnergies for fueling not just sport, but the spirit of togetherness that must define our continent.”
This moment was not merely a display. It is a celebration of Rwanda’s welcome, of Africa’s resilience, and of football’s boundless power to unite the world.
Amid bicycles and roads, a golden trophy stood still, yet its shine traveled farther than wheels could spin. For in Kigali, Africa’s future shimmered, proud and unshaken.