Rwanda is set to host a major boxing and entertainment event later this month as Kigali Fight Night brings together professional fighters from across Africa alongside international coaches, in a move expected to boost the country’s growing sports industry.
The event, scheduled for March 28, 2026, at KCC Roundabout, will feature professional boxers from Rwanda, Uganda, Cameroon, Tanzania, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Malawi, among others. Organizers say the tournament will also attract boxing coaches and trainers from the United States, the United Kingdom and Dubai, adding a global dimension to the competition.
Promoted by Silverback Sports, Kigali Fight Night combines professional bouts with live music, DJ performances and entertainment, creating a hybrid experience that blends sport and culture.
Officials say the event marks a significant step for African professional boxing, offering fighters on the continent greater exposure and access to international networks.
Bashir Ntwari, president of the Rwanda Boxing Federation, said the initiative is part of a broader effort to develop the sport locally and create pathways for athletes to compete at higher levels.
“Kigali Fight Night is about more than one night of boxing. It is about creating a pathway for Rwandan fighters to transition from amateur boxing into professional careers, compete in international tournaments and gain global exposure,” Ntwari said. “Events like this help us strengthen local clubs and move toward establishing a professional boxing competition in Rwanda.” he explained.
The presence of international coaches is expected to provide opportunities for skills development, mentorship and potential talent scouting, particularly for young Rwandan fighters seeking to break into the professional circuit.
In addition to its sporting ambitions, organizers say the event is designed to support local businesses. Small enterprises and entrepreneurs have been offered free vendor spaces at the venue, allowing them to showcase products and services to attendees.
The initiative is aimed at stimulating local economic activity by creating opportunities for sales, brand visibility and partnerships during the event.
Jermaine Burke, CEO of Silverback Sports and promoter of the event, said Kigali Fight Night reflects a broader vision of using sports as a driver of economic growth.
“Kigali Fight Night is not just about boxing. It is about building an ecosystem around sports that benefits athletes, businesses and communities,” Burke said. “By bringing international fighters and coaches to Rwanda while creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs, we are positioning Kigali as a destination for major sporting events.” he added.
The fight card includes several international matchups, such as Jerry Katamba of the Democratic Republic of Congo facing Tanzania’s Ali Mkojani, and Kingbo Hans of Gabon taking on Uganda’s Taafu Odoyi. Women’s bouts will also feature, including Daniella Muleketsi of the DRC against Uganda’s Martha Akinyi and Nigeria’s Nene Joy Ojo against Tanzania’s Leila Yazidu.
The event will also showcase emerging talent, with seven amateur bouts featuring Rwandan boxers expected to compete earlier in the day.
Doors will open at 2 p.m., with amateur fights and vendor activities starting in the afternoon before the main bouts begin at 5 p.m.
Open to fans of all ages, Kigali Fight Night is expected to draw a diverse audience of sports enthusiasts, entertainment seekers and members of the business community.
As Rwanda continues to invest in sports and events tourism, organizers say initiatives like Kigali Fight Night could help position the country as a key player in Africa’s evolving professional boxing scene.