TRUST US ON FOOTBALL DEALS, RWANDA SAYS

Rwanda says it is unfazed by criticism that its heavy investments in tourism sponsorship deals with rich European clubs is a tad too expensive for a poor country, noting that the deals will pay off in the long-term by making the country a regional tourism hub.

Rwanda now has contracts with two giant European football clubs — London-based Arsenal FC and current French league champions Paris Saint-Germain. But major aspects of the agreements remain undisclosed, with Rwandan officials saying the decision was made by all parties concerned.

Rwanda signed the multimillion three-year sleeve sponsorship deal with Arsenal in May last year, through which several tourism campaigns have been held.

Under this deal, the Visit Rwanda logo runs on the LED screens at the Emirates stadium during premier league games.

The country has now entered into a similar arrangement with PSG, with officials claiming it will attract millions of tourists from France and other European countries.

Although French media has said the deal cost Rwanda between $8.8 million to $11 million, Kigali says the figure remains undisclosed.

Continue Reading >>>