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This is not just another development zone; it’s a provincial-level pilot for China’s carbon peaking and neutrality goals.

Spanning 31 square kilometers, the park uses a combination of green electricity and hydrogen energy to power industries. I even got to ride a hydrogen-powered bike — I pedaled lightly, and the bike accelerated almost effortlessly. It felt like a glimpse into the future of clean mobility.

Next was Jiangsu Yueda Textile Group. Walking into their 400-million-yuan intelligent factory felt like entering another world. Everything runs on 5G-connected machinery, from spinning to weaving to dyeing. Robots work with precision, minimizing errors and reducing the workforce per 10,000 spindles by 72%, while increasing efficiency by 30%.

It’s a National Green Factory, and seeing how traditional textile production has transformed into a smart operation left a lasting impression.

At Jiangsu Yueda Kia Automobile Co., the scale of innovation was even more striking. The company can manufacture a full car body in just 50 seconds, producing around 1,000 vehicles per day, with exports to more than 70 countries.

Inside the smart factory, 558 robots work in harmony, achieving 100 percent automation in the welding workshop. This is Yancheng’s global face — competitive, efficient, and forward-looking.

Technology here isn’t limited to industry. At the Yandu Digital Agriculture Science and Technology Park, I saw how big data and real-time sales information are used to build a smart agricultural ecosystem.

This park connects markets across eastern and western China, ensuring products move efficiently. It showed me how technology can make farming not only smarter but also more inclusive.

Yancheng’s Cross-Border E-Commerce Industrial Park is another example. Hosting over 80 companies, including Alibaba International Station and Sinotrans DHL, the park links local industries with global markets.

Walking through its modern facilities, I could sense how the city is positioning itself as a trade and logistics hub with a digital backbone.

The Yangtze River Delta Digital Audiovisual Industry Base offered a completely different experience. Here, technology meets creativity. I explored virtual studios and interactive digital human technologies.

It’s the first digital audiovisual industry base in the region, bringing together more than 100 companies and building an ecosystem for content production, simulation, and digital services.

My technological journey also took me to Jiangsu Tianyi Aviation Industry Co., a company that has become a national leader in 5G airport technology. Founded in 2011, it focuses on developing 38 types of airport-specific equipment and has played a major role in setting national civil aviation standards.

Walking through its facilities, I was struck by how innovation drives every corner — from the precision engineering labs to the smart systems that power modern airports. It was inspiring to see how a local company has gained national recognition for shaping the future of aviation technology.

What ties all these places together is Yancheng’s clear vision: to lead in green, smart, and globally connected industries. As I moved from one site to another, I felt I wasn’t just observing innovation; I was standing inside a living model of a future many cities aspire to build.

Dafeng Port Zero-Carbon Industrial Park is located in Yancheng.

Jiangsu Yueda Kia Automobile Co., can manufacture a full car body in just 50 seconds, producing around 1,000 vehicles per day.

Christian Mugisha

The accident occurred around 7:45 a.m. local time on Wednesday during an annual church celebration in the town of Arerti, North Shewa Zone, when a makeshift wooden scaffolding used for finishing work on a church gave way, state-affiliated Fana Broadcasting Corporation quoted district police chief Ahmed Gebeyehu as saying.

Police said the death toll could rise further as more than 200 people sustained serious and minor injuries. The injured are receiving medical treatment at nearby health facilities.

The collapse caused significant damage, trapping many worshippers beneath the debris and complicating rescue efforts, it was noted, adding that emergency operations are continuing to free those still trapped.

Xinhua

The Senate voted on the same two bills that it failed to pass Tuesday night — one from Democrats and the other from Republicans.

Healthcare benefits remain a key sticking point in the latest negotiations, with Democrats advocating stronger healthcare funding, while Republicans accuse them of seeking to provide free healthcare to undocumented immigrants.

“Now, Senate Democrats are shutting down the government and holding the economy hostage because they want to reinstate those benefits for illegal aliens,” U.S. Vice President JD Vance said in a Fox News interview on Wednesday.

“Republicans shut down the government because they can’t be bothered to protect health care for Americans across this country,” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said Wednesday on X.

Schumer said Tuesday on social media that Republicans were lying about Democrats’ stance. “This is a lie. Not a single federal dollar goes to providing health insurance for undocumented immigrants. NOT. ONE. PENNY.”

The Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol are among the landmarks closed due to the government shutdown. The Smithsonian Institution said that it will use money from the last fiscal year’s budget to keep its museums, research centers and the National Zoo open at least through Oct. 6.

Most national parks will keep outdoor areas open, but staffed facilities, such as visitor centers, will be closed.

Federal employees who are considered essential must still report to work, although they will not be paid until the government reopens. Hundreds of thousands of others will be placed on unpaid leave. Some public services will be suspended or delayed, and the release of economic data will also be affected.

“Shutdowns don’t save money, they waste money,” Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said in a statement.

“Under shutdowns, we pay federal workers not to work and rent buildings that aren’t being used, all while requiring costly shutdown planning, inefficient allocation of government resources, and a reduction in the services available to the American people. We should avoid a shutdown and keep the government funded,” she said.

The U.S. Senate on Wednesday failed to approve a short-term spending bill, as the federal government entered its first shutdown in nearly seven years.

Xinhua

The move expands the airline’s East African network, connecting Kigali with two of the region’s most popular coastal destinations.

The flights will operate four times a week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—using a Boeing B737. The new service marks RwandAir’s return to Mombasa, where it last flew in 2019, and introduces Zanzibar as a fresh addition to its route map. With this expansion, RwandAir now serves three destinations in Tanzania and two in Kenya.

'Returning to Mombasa and introducing Zanzibar is another step forward in our ambitious growth journey,' said Yvonne Makolo, CEO of RwandAir. 'By expanding our East African network, we are strengthening Kigali’s position as a key hub, giving our customers more opportunities to explore the region, while also opening doors for trade, tourism and stronger ties across East Africa.'

The route is designed to offer both weekend getaways and extended vacations, giving travellers convenient access to pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and world-class leisure experiences.

Flight WB 444 will depart Kigali at 9:50 AM, arriving in Zanzibar at 12:50 PM before continuing to Mombasa, arriving at 2:35 PM. The return journey, Flight WB 445, will leave Mombasa at 5:10 PM, with a brief stop in Zanzibar before arriving back in Kigali at 8:00 PM.

As the recent winner of Skytrax’s Best African Regional Airline award, RwandAir affirms that its latest route underscores its commitment to strengthening regional connectivity and enhancing the travel experience for its customers.

RwandAir operates a fleet of 13 aircraft, serving over 144 destinations through direct flights and codeshare partnerships, connecting Africa to the world from its hub in Kigali.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

The event, held at the Kigali Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, forms part of the country’s ongoing work toward a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (2025—2028).

Co-organised by Initiatives for Peace and Human Rights (iPeace) and the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR), with financial support from the African Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA), the roundtable brought together government officials, private sector leaders, civil society representatives, and development partners. The goal was to explore ways to integrate international human rights and environmental standards into Rwanda’s domestic legal framework.

If adopted, the MHREDD law would position Rwanda alongside countries like France, Germany, and the European Union, which have implemented similar regulations to align corporate conduct with human rights and environmental sustainability.

In her opening remarks, Providence Umurungi, Chairperson of the NCHR, emphasised the importance of the discussions.

“Rwanda is preparing a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights, which will provide a solid foundation for these discussions. Exploring a mandatory due diligence law is the next logical step to translate our commitments into tangible accountability, ensuring that economic growth goes hand-in-hand with respect for human rights and environmental protection,” she stated.

Prof. Elvis Mbembe, CEO of iPeace, highlighted the need for a uniquely Rwandan model of due diligence.

“Today is about initiating a truly Rwandan model of due diligence. By learning from global best practices and tailoring them to our context, we can create a framework that supports responsible business, protects our people and planet, and reinforces Rwanda’s leadership on the continent,” he noted.

The discussions featured expert presentations on international MHREDD frameworks and lessons learned from other jurisdictions. Participants explored how Rwanda could develop a context-specific approach while addressing current challenges in the local business environment.

Key institutions represented included the Rwanda Development Board (RDB), the Rwanda Environment Management Authority (REMA), and the Ministry of Justice (MINIJUST), alongside civil society organisations and private sector stakeholders.

Panel discussions highlighted both the opportunities and challenges of embedding mandatory due diligence into Rwanda’s laws. While many stakeholders recognised the complexity of monitoring supply chains and enforcing compliance, there was strong consensus on the urgency of aligning Rwanda’s economic growth with international human rights and environmental standards.

The roundtable produced several key outcomes, including a shared understanding of the priorities and potential models for a Rwandan MHREDD law, a strengthened multi-stakeholder commitment to advancing the business and human rights agenda, and an agreement on follow-up actions to sustain momentum and lay the groundwork for future legislation.

Participants underscored that adopting such a law would not only safeguard people and the environment but also enhance Rwanda’s reputation as a responsible and forward-looking investment destination. By embedding sustainability and human rights into its business ecosystem, Rwanda could further differentiate itself as a leader in Africa’s drive for ethical development.

The Kigali roundtable is widely viewed as a milestone in Rwanda’s journey toward embedding corporate responsibility in its governance framework. With consensus beginning to form around the need for MHREDD legislation, the country is set to build on its reputation for progressive policymaking.

Observers note that Rwanda’s leadership in this area could inspire other African nations to pursue similar reforms, creating momentum across the continent. As multinational companies increasingly face scrutiny over their human rights and environmental practices, Rwanda’s move toward MHREDD could also strengthen its position in global markets.

As the process unfolds, stakeholders will continue to refine the framework, balancing the need for accountability with support for business growth and innovation.

The event, held at the Kigali Marriott Hotel on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, forms part of the country’s ongoing work toward a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights (2025—2028).

Providence Umurungi, Chairperson of the National Commission for Human Rights, delivering the keynote speech.

Prof. Elvis Mbembe, CEO of iPeace, highlighted the need for a uniquely Rwandan model of due diligence.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

Speaking at the UN Security Council briefing on September 30, Rwanda’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Martin Ngoga, said the UN reports on eastern DRC overlooked key drivers of the conflict, including tensions between the AFC/M23 rebel group and the Kinshasa administration, as well as the security threats posed to Rwanda.

'The latest report on eastern DRC reflects troubling omissions. Chief among them is the failure to sufficiently address one of the most dangerous drivers of violence, and that is hate speech and identity-based persecution. The report does not address the issue of mercenaries,' Ngoga said.

FDLR’s decades-long menace

Ngoga accused the DRC government of continuing to back the FDLR, remnants of the militia responsible for the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi, despite repeated concerns raised by Rwanda.

'FDLR, that is backed by the DRC government, has its origin in the force that killed 1 million Rwandans. It is the only genocidal group that remained in its military formation, in known locations, with the same intentions, undisturbed for a period of 31 years,' he said.

Ngoga warned that the FDLR’s presence in eastern DRC directly threatens Rwanda’s security. 'It happened once to us in ’94. We took advice from preachers and hid in churches, and we were slaughtered like cows. It will never happen again. FDLR are Rwandans, and in Rwanda is where they should be, and this is what we are asking the DRC to do,' he said.

He added that, unlike neighbouring countries like Tanzania that disarmed and repatriated perpetrators of the 1994 genocide, the DRC has chosen to arm and support the group.

'The problem we have with the DRC is they chose the opposite direction: to arm them, reorganise them, continue to support them until now. And we have a report 31 years later that says they even have strongholds in the DRC. These are people who killed our people, want to continue killing…They should be neutralised.'

He questioned MONUSCO’s role, noting: 'MONUSCO cooperates with the DRC government, DRC army, knowing FDLR is within the DRC army. And what MONUSCO does, and this is on record, is to avoid units and battalions in which FDLR is deployed. Formally, that is the position of MONUSCO. What does complicity mean?'

Mercenaries are a growing concern

Ngoga also raised alarm over mercenaries operating in eastern DRC, saying they have been consistently overlooked in UN reporting. This comes amid reports that the DRC has enlisted mercenaries from the private security firm of former US Navy SEAL officer Erik Prince, months after Romanian mercenaries were forced to flee following the M23 offensive in Goma.

'There are mercenaries now. There were mercenaries before. When they were thrashed out of the forest, everyone was there to see. Why is it that the Security Council treats this as a non-issue, and why is it that MONUSCO does not consider this as an issue?' he asked, urging the UN to address their presence as a serious threat to regional stability.

UN reporting and hate speech

Ngoga criticised the UN for underreporting key facts and portraying armed groups in a biased manner. He also highlighted the dangers of hate speech targeting Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese communities.

'I have seen reports of the Security Council where you quote from social media postings. Who has not seen hate speech on social media, in classrooms, in churches, where hate is taught to 10-year-olds? Only last week, some people were being tormented because they had long noses. Those who know the history of the region know what it means. What a long nose means—it means death to some people,' he said.

Call for a credible peace process

While criticising the UN, Rwanda reiterated its commitment to the Washington Peace Agreement and the Doha process, which provide structured and inclusive frameworks for dialogue, addressing governance, exclusion, armed groups, and ethnic tensions.

'This is a one-time chance to bring lasting peace to the DRC, and the Security Council must lend its unequivocal support. Rwanda is fully committed to this process, and we shall implement it to the letter,' Ngoga said.

He also stressed the importance of humanitarian access and the safe return of refugees. 'Some of the refugees are already returning to Rwanda, and mechanisms are in place to receive them,' he said.

Rwanda’s right to self-defence

At the same time, Ngoga reminded the Council that Rwanda has faced repeated cross-border attacks from the DRC over three decades and stressed that Rwanda will continue to defend itself in the face of threats.

'If 21 attacks by a non-state group supported by a state member of the UN do not constitute the reason to activate Article 51 of the Charter, which threshold exists?' he asked, stressing Rwanda’s right to defend its citizens.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

For a long time, benefiting from the deep-rooted brotherly friendship between China and Rwanda, the two countries have continuously deepened practical cooperation in various economic and social fields under the jointly building initiatives for peace, security, development, and governance, as well as within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

Both sides have achieved sustained and rapid development, particularly in traditional and emerging areas such as trade, investment, infrastructure construction, agriculture, education, energy, healthcare, human resources, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and green development.

Enterprises from both countries actively share market resources and development experiences, continuously innovate cooperation models and channels, and actively engage in third-party cooperation, making positive and greater contributions to advancing the economies of both sides, the region, and even the world.

The shared economic development between China and Rwanda and the mutually enterprises between China and the mutually beneficial cooperation between enterprises of both countries are rooted in a sound bilateral environment, yet they also depend on a stable multilateral environment.

Currently, certain countries are abusing tariff measures, severely undermining global economic and trade order. The multilateral trading system is facing unprecedented challenges, while uncertainty and instability in the global economy are on the rise.

As a responsible major developing country, China has consistently adhered to the development philosophy of extensive consultation, joint contribution ans shared benefits. China will always uphold true multilateralism, support the rules-based multilateral trading system, actively participate in the WTO reform process, firmly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing members, better bridge the North-South development gap, promote the improvement of global economic governance, and build an open global economy.

China is the world’s largest developing country, and issues of unbalanced and inadequate development persist. Development remains China’s foremost priority. While advancing its own development, China is committed to continuously injecting new momentum and energy into promoting global economic growth and upholding the world economic order.

On September 23, 2025, local time, Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China solemnly declared to the world while attending events related to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly that China, as a responsible major developing country, will not seek new special and differential treatment in the current and future negotiations of the World Trade Organization.

China joined the WTO as a developing member, and enjoying special and differential treatment is its legitimate institutional right. Since joining the WTO, China has actively participated in multilateral trade negotiations, autonomously and pragmatically handled special and differential treatment based on its own development level and capacity, and made important contributions to achieving multiple WTO negotiation outcomes and promoting global trade liberalization and facilitation.

The significant measure announced by China carries distinct developmental attributes. It will help the multilateral trading system to better focus on development issues, enhance the inclusivity of international trade, and better bridge the North-South development divide, thereby fulfilling the WTO’s original purpose of promoting global development.

China’s position in the current and future WTO negotiations remains unchanged in three aspects: its status as a developing member will not change, its resolve to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing members will not change, and its stance on promoting global trade and investment liberalization and facilitation will not change. On the issue of special and differential treatment, China has always stood together with other developing members of the WTO, firmly safeguarding the fairness and inclusiveness of the multilateral trading system.

Rwanda is one of the fastest-growing nations in Africa, dedicated to economic innovation and growth through market-oriented reforms, privatization, trade liberalization, and the attraction of foreign investment. The country emphasizes private sector development, infrastructure enhancement, and high-yield agriculture.

Rwanda has achieved sustained social stability and long-term economic growth, becoming one of the few African countries to meet the United Nations Millennium Development Goals. It offers a favorable environment and abundant opportunities for enterprises worldwide, including those from China. Simultaneously, Rwanda actively engages in international and regional affairs, upholding principles of justice, fairness, equity, and equality.. It continues to contribute positively to maintaining international order and advancing global economic development.

Since establishing diplomatic relations 54 years ago, China and Rwanda have consistently maintained a sincere friendship built on equality, working closely together on bilateral and international matters. This enduring partnership has deepened the bonds between the people of both countries and serves as a exemplary model of South-South Cooperation, our bilateral relations are poised to scale new heights. Our joint commitment to upholding the multilateral trading system and advancing the common development of the Global South will be further fortified, charting an even smoother course toward mutual benefit, win-win cooperation, and shared progress.

Mr. Gao Zhiqiang is the Counsellor of the Chinese Embassy in Rwanda.

Gao Zhiqiang

The announcement was made on September 30, 2025, during the East Africa Farmers Federation (EAFF) conference held in Kigali. The event brought together farmers from across the East African Community (EAC) and various partners to discuss strategies for food self-sufficiency and long-term agricultural development.

This latest contribution adds to over Frw 127 billion that the EU had previously provided through the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Elise Hadman, Deputy Head for Western Africa at the EU’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, praised EAFF’s 20 years of supporting small-scale farmers and noted that over Frw 170 billion has been channelled to farmer associations through the EU-Bank of Kigali 'Global Gateway Strategy’.

Hadman said, 'So far, farmer associations and food processors have received over 75 million Euros (127 billion Rwandan Francs) from the EU in partnership with BK through the IFAD fund. Today, we are pleased to confirm an additional 26 million Euros (44 billion Rwandan Francs), bringing total support to over 170 billion Rwandan Francs.'

She added that the EU remains committed to advancing agricultural development across the continent to ensure food self-sufficiency.

Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, Rwanda’s Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, noted that the funding will help farmers, food processors, and agricultural institutions access capital to expand operations and mitigate the effects of climate change.

'As we celebrate 20 years of the EAFF, we look forward to advancing long-term agriculture that benefits the entire region. When we receive funding, we must use it to increase production, not for celebrations. This is what will help reduce Africa’s food import gap,' he said.

It is expected that EU agricultural support to Rwanda will total 500 million Euros between 2020 and 2030.

During the conference, officials were also taken through a range of agricultural produce processed by local farmers, highlighting the impact of EU support on Rwanda’s agricultural sector.

The East Africa Farmers Federation (EAFF) conference held in Kigali brought together farmers from across the EAC and various partners to discuss strategies for food self-sufficiency and long-term agricultural development.

Elise Hadman, Deputy Head for Western Africa at the EU’s Directorate-General for International Partnerships, praised EAFF’s 20 years of supporting small-scale farmers.

Dr. Mark Cyubahiro Bagabe, Rwanda’s Minister of Agriculture and Animal Resources, noted that the funding will help farmers, food processors, and agricultural institutions access capital to expand operations and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Various officials were taken through the processing of agricultural produce.

IGIHE

The delegation, led by Col Elias Zulu, is in Rwanda for a study tour from 28 September to 4 October 2025. The visit aims to get insight into Rwanda’s transformation journey and its critical role in promoting peace and security in the region and beyond.

The Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, briefed the delegation on the RDF’s transformation and its contribution to continental security.

In his remarks, Gen Mubarakh expressed appreciation to the Zambia Defence Forces and the Zambia Defence Services Command and Staff College for selecting Rwanda as a destination for this important phase of professional military education.

He stated that the visit reflects the strong and enduring bonds of friendship and military cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the area of capacity building.

'Rwanda today stands as a nation transformed,' said Gen Mubarakh. '31 years after the Genocide against the Tutsi, we have moved from being a recipient of international peacekeeping support to a contributor to peace and security across the continent and beyond. Rwanda is now a peaceful, stable, and forward-looking country committed to long-term socio-economic development, despite complex regional security challenges.'

Col Elias Zulu, Head of delegation, expressed gratitude to the RDF for facilitating the visit. He noted that the delegation gained a deeper understanding of RDF’s contribution to Rwanda’s socio-economic transformation, which aligns with the objectives of their study tour.

He highlighted the profound impact of visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where the delegation gained valuable insights into Rwanda’s history, the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and the country’s remarkable journey of recovery and resilience.

As part of the tour, the delegation also visited the Campaign against Genocide Museum and will continue their programme with visits to various government institutions and defence agencies.

The delegation of 27 faculty and student officers from the Zambia Defence Services Command and Staff College was hosted at RDF Headquarters in Kimihurura on Tuesday.

Gen Mubarakh expressed appreciation to the Zambia Defence Forces and the Zambia Defence Services Command and Staff College for selecting Rwanda as a destination for this important phase of professional military education.

The Defence Spokesperson, Brig Gen Ronald Rwivanga, briefed the delegation on the RDF’s transformation and its contribution to continental security.

The visit aims to get insight into Rwanda’s transformation journey and its critical role in promoting peace and security in the region and beyond.

IGIHE

The deal marks the first time an African tourism board has secured a major NBA jersey sponsorship. The 'Visit Rwanda' logo will appear on all Clippers game and practice jerseys, and the brand is also the official coffee sponsor of the team’s new Intuit Dome.

Beyond global visibility, the partnership is a strategic move for Rwanda, helping to promote tourism, showcase its culture and natural beauty to a worldwide audience, and strengthen the country’s presence in international sports.

The basketball club LA Clippers was founded in 1970 as the Buffalo Braves.

Here’s what you need to know about the Clippers:

A rocky start to an NBA journey

Founded in 1970 as the Buffalo Braves, the franchise faced early struggles despite Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo leading the way. In 1978, the team moved to San Diego, becoming the Clippers, a nod to the city’s historic clipper ships.

By 1984, the franchise relocated to Los Angeles but spent decades in the shadow of the Lakers, making only occasional playoff appearances and struggling to establish a consistent winning culture.

The 'Visit Rwanda' logo will appear on all Clippers game and practice jerseys.

The rise of 'Lob City'

The Clippers’ fortunes changed in the 2010s. The acquisition of Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan, and superstar Chris Paul in 2011 launched the 'Lob City' era, famous for highlight-reel dunks and fast-paced offence.

During this period, the team won its first Pacific Division titles in 2013 and 2014, becoming consistent playoff contenders, though Conference Finals success remained elusive.

A new era under Steve Ballmer

In 2014, former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer purchased the team, bringing financial muscle and a bold vision. The 2019 acquisitions of two-time NBA champion Kawhi Leonard and superstar Paul George positioned the Clippers as legitimate title contenders. Their milestone came in 2021 when the team reached the Western Conference Finals for the first time in franchise history.

The team has also posted 14 consecutive winning seasons, the longest active streak in the NBA, reflecting sustained success and resilience at the top of the league.

The team has also posted 14 consecutive winning seasons, the longest active streak in the NBA, reflecting sustained success and resilience at the top of the league.

Recent achievements

The Clippers have captured three Pacific Division titles in 2013, 2014, and 2024. Their most notable playoff achievement came in 2021, when the team reached the Western Conference Finals for the first time.

Despite these successes, the franchise is still chasing its first NBA championship—a milestone that continues to fuel the team’s ambition and identity as resilient competitors in the league.

Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer purchased the team in 2014.

The Visit Rwanda partnership

The newly signed multi-year partnership with Visit Rwanda provides both global visibility and community impact.

The 'Visit Rwanda' logo will feature on all Clippers jerseys, reaching an estimated 1.4 billion NBA viewers worldwide.

Beyond branding, the partnership includes refurbishing basketball courts in Rwanda, hosting Rwandan youth coaches in Los Angeles for training sessions, and sending Clippers coaches to Rwanda for clinics and virtual coaching sessions.

Visit Rwanda is also the official coffee sponsor of the Intuit Dome, introducing premium Rwandan coffee to a global sports audience. The collaboration supports the NBA’s Basketball Africa League, which has held games at Rwanda’s BK Arena, providing young African athletes with development pathways and exposure to professional basketball standards.

Wycliffe Nyamasege