Kigali, 3 May 2014

President Kagame today received Tony Adams, former Arsenal Captain and England defender who is in the country as part of the Airtel sponsored Arsenal Clinic Football Academy. Tony Adams presented a special gift from Arsenal FC Manager, Arsene Wenger, to President Kagame in recognition of his contribution to sports and football, and also for being a prominent Arsenal fan.

Speaking to journalists after meeting President Kagame, Tony Adams said:

“We talked about football, Arsenal and the Emirates…..we also talked about what we are doing here, about developing young talents and giving them opportunities to rise as stars. President Kagame is so humble. It’s remarkable what he has done in this country. I think Rwandans feel so lucky to have such a great President and leader.”

The Minister of Culture and Sports, Protais Mitali said Tony Adams explained the activities of the Arsenal Clinic Football Academy as an effort to nurture future football stars and that President Kagame commended the efforts. Minister Mitali said Rwandans are optimistic that this initiative will improve the standards of football in the country.

Arsenal Clinic is a Football Academy sponsored by Airtel for elite players of the Airtel Rising Stars from different partaking countries. This year, Rwanda played host to the Arsenal Clinic from April 28 to May 2.