FIBA AfroBasket 2021 logo unveiled

KIGALI (Rwanda) - Less than a year to the FIBA AfroBasket 2021, FIBA and hosts Rwanda have unveiled the official logo of the much-anticipated 16-team tournament set for August 24-September 5, 2021. 

The new logo features the profile of a basketball wrapped in yellow at the top of the structure, gaining support from a trophy that embraces the other national colors - blue and green as well as a display of black and white that represents the traditional imigongo, a popular art form of Rwanda. 

"The logo is a product of the work between FIBA and the Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA). We also involved the Ministry of Sports. The basis was on our Rwandan cultural aspects - the imigongo , Rwandan flag colours and also one thousand hills that are represented," explained Richard Nyirishema, the FERWABA Second Vice President. 

Imigongo date back to the 18th century in Rwandan society

From deep countryside homes to luxurious hotels in urban Kigali to street markets occupied by local artisans, imigongo artwork majestically sits on racks and shelves speaking a common language understood by millions of people. Its inclusion in the logo is a representation of the evolvement of Rwanda as a country over the years.  

Richard Nyirishema, the FERWABA Second Vice President added: "We are a hospitable people. We have good services and we shall do all that we can to facilitate all those that want to travel to the AfroBasket to ensure it a successful event for all."

August 24, 2021 will see the tip-off of the biggest basketball competition on the continent and is a fulfillment of a long-term commitment by the leadership of the FERWABA to grow the game across the country. 

Rwanda has hosted several other continental events including the FIBA Africa Champions Cup 2009, FIBA U18 African Championship 2016 and the FIBA U16 African Women's Championship 2019 among others. 

The recent opening of the magnificent Kigali Arena has since added spark to the face of basketball and indeed when the continent converges in the Rwandan capital next year, an aura of high expectations will stand tall in the face of the organizers. 

Next year's edition will be the 40th edition of the continental competition and will also mark the first time that it will be hosted after four years. It was previously held every two years.   

FIBA