The Rwanda Development Board (RDB) on June 29 named NBA player Nate Ament as the first global brand ambassador for Visit Rwanda’s basketball initiative, in a move aimed at expanding the country’s sports-driven tourism and international visibility.
The partnership places Ament at the center of Rwanda’s strategy to use basketball as a platform to promote tourism, cultural heritage, sports development and investment opportunities worldwide. Officials said it marks a new phase in how Rwanda engages with global audiences through sport.
Ament, 19, has Rwandan heritage through his mother. He entered the NBA in the 2026 draft, where he was selected by the Miami Heat before being traded to the Milwaukee Bucks. He previously played college basketball at Tennessee in the United States NCAA system.
During the NBA Draft on June 24, Ament wore a jacket featuring the Visit Rwanda logo, drawing attention to his connection to the country ahead of the announcement.
RDB Chief Executive Officer Jean-Guy Afrika said Ament reflects Rwanda’s approach to sports diplomacy.
“Nate represents a new phase in this journey,” Afrika said. “As the first individual to be appointed our international ambassador, he brings a personal story that reflects the values that continue to drive Rwanda forward: purpose, dedication, resilience.”
Ament said the role is meaningful because of his family ties to Rwanda.
“Representing Rwanda means a lot to me,” Ament said.
RDB said the partnership is part of its broader effort to promote Rwanda globally through sport under the Visit Rwanda brand.
