As we approach the end of the year, I want to share one of the most unforgettable experiences from this past year in the beautiful country of Rwanda. I was invited by the Government of Rwanda, as an Arsenal ambassador, to witness the country’s remarkable work in environmental preservation especially the protection of its ecosystems and the reintroduction of gorilla families. From the very beginning, the dedication of local communities stood out, turning tourism into a sustainable, locally driven economy.
Rwanda’s leadership in addressing climate change left a strong impression on me.
Monthly community waste-collection days practised not only in Kigali but also across rural areas, show how collective action can create meaningful change. It’s an approach many countries could learn from. 🌱
I had the honour of meeting President
@PaulKagame to discuss Rwanda’s long-term sustainability strategy, and I was also invited to take part in the incredible yearly naming ceremony of a newborn baby gorilla, a cultural moment that reflects the country’s conservation achievements.
The encounter that will stay with me the longest was spending a day with Rambo’s gorilla family, just a meter and a half from a silverback.
It was a calm, powerful reminder of our place in nature and our responsibility to protect it. 🦍
What moved me most was Rwanda’s spirit.
A nation that has faced immense hardship now stands as a testament to resilience and unity.
The warmth and openness of its people left me with a quiet but lasting sense of hope and a belief that renewal is not only possible, but already happening.
I want to thank the President of Rwanda,
@Arsenal Football Club and Oorwanda for making this journey possible, and above all, the people of Rwanda who made me feel at home.
Rwanda will forever hold a place in my heart.
❤️ 🤍