A $40 million cycling complex known as the “Field of Dreams” was inaugurated Thursday in Bugesera District, a project Israeli investor Sylvan Adams says was inspired by Rwanda’s history, particularly the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Adams told participants at the ceremony that the country’s painful past motivated him to invest in a sports initiative that promotes unity, reconciliation and development.
“The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi calls on everyone to contribute to unity and reconciliation,” Adams said. “Sports can bring people together and improve lives. This is something Rwanda and Israel have in common.”
The official launch was attended by Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire, Israel’s ambassador to Rwanda Einat Weiss, Gasore Foundation director Serge Gasore, Bugesera District Mayor Richard Mutabazi, Winner Rwanda CEO Shaul Haztir and other leaders.
Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire
The project, initiated in February 2022 under the #RaceForChange campaign, includes two world-class cycling tracks: a pump track for mountain bikes and a race track for road cycling. Organizers say the facilities will help nurture cycling talent while boosting the well-being of children in Rwanda and across East Africa.
“I remember when this was just an empty field,” said Gasore. “Today, we host around 500 children every weekend free of charge. We already have success stories like Uwera Aline, who began training here and within nine months was competing abroad while excelling in her studies.”
Minister Mukazayire encouraged the children to seize the opportunity. “These facilities are pillars of our sports development strategy,” she said. “You should use them to grow your talents.”
The investment, backed by Winner Rwanda, also includes a school that offers classes from kindergarten through senior four alongside cycling training. Additional infrastructure includes a high-tech indoor training facility, a spectator area, a bicycle garage and administrative offices.
In collaboration with Bugesera District, the project has also established the Bugesera Women’s Cycling Team under the Gasore Serge Foundation, furthering opportunities for young athletes in the region.
