Kagame Receives Champion Belt from Boxer Carlos Takam

The Office of the President, Village Urugwiro, said in a statement that Kagame held talks with Takam on September 28, shortly after the conclusion of the UCI Road World Championships hosted in Rwanda.

“This week, the Carlos Takam Foundation inaugurated the Carlos Takam Boxing Academy in Kigali, with the goal of promoting boxing in Africa. Takam also presented President Kagame with an authentic World Boxing Council (WBC) champion belt as a gesture of appreciation to Rwanda and the mission of the foundation,” the statement said.

Takam, 44, was born in Douala, Cameroon, and later obtained French nationality. He represented Cameroon in the 2004 Olympic Games before turning professional. Over his career, he has fought 48 professional bouts, winning 40, losing seven and drawing once.

The heavyweight is best known for facing world-class opponents including Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker. In 2017, he fought for the WBA, IBF and IBO heavyweight titles.

The symbolic gift comes as Rwanda prepares to host major combat sports events. On October 18, Kigali Arena will stage the semifinals of the Professional Fighters League (PFL), featuring international stars in kickboxing and mixed martial arts.

Kagame has frequently underscored the value of sports in creating opportunities for Africa’s youth, describing investment in athletics as an investment in the continent’s future.