She shared these insights on Sunday, August 24, 2025, during a press briefing, discussing NBA Africa’s goals and aspirations for African leaders in promoting basketball on the continent.

According to Akamanzi, BWB will provide young players with opportunities to develop into professional basketball athletes. Beyond this, bringing the camp to Rwanda will also have economic benefits, including increased hotel bookings and air travel, as well as the use of local security services.

"Young people here will have the chance to play at a professional level, and these opportunities are real for those determined to reach them. Beyond that, hosting the camp brings many economic benefits from airlines and hotels to security companies supporting the event. Rwanda’s economy will gain significantly from Basketball Without Borders being here," she said.

Akamanzi also noted that while many African leaders understand NBA Africa’s vision, more engagement is needed. She stressed the importance of more institutions across Africa investing in sports, particularly basketball.

"I see that countries are making progress in understanding the value of sports. But it’s still not enough. More government ministries, finance ministries, and major companies must support sports, especially basketball, because that’s where we see the greatest impact. We want greater commitment and investment from these entities," she said.

She added, "When I speak with leaders across Africa, I see that they understand the power of sports in youth development and increasingly appreciate its economic impact. What we ask going forward is for them to invest financially and give sports a central role in building healthier communities and productive citizens. The youth have a future ahead, and sports play a crucial role in shaping it."

Akamanzi highlighted that NBA Africa cannot achieve its goals alone and requires strong partnerships.

"One thing we always emphasize is that we cannot do it alone as NBA Africa and the Basketball Africa League (BAL). We believe in the power of partnerships. FIBA is a key partner for BAL they operate across the continent and collaborate with national federations. Often, when we want to expand into countries without a permanent presence, FIBA and local federations support us," she said.

She also mentioned collaboration with other organizations, including Shooting Touch in Rwanda, as part of NBA Africa’s broader outreach programs, such as the Grannies Club initiative.

"We work with other organizations like Shooting Touch, which is here in Rwanda, to extend our community programs. We aim to reach as many places as possible across Africa, but we know we cannot do it alone. That’s why partnerships are key to expanding our impact," Kamanzi added.

The Basketball Without Borders camp has been underway in Rwanda since Saturday, August 23, 2025, and will run until Tuesday, August 26, 2025. Activities continued last week, including events organized by Shooting Touch, which drew parents from Kayonza District, where the organization is based.