The football legend who played for major teams, including Liverpool, El Hadji Diouf, has returned to Rwanda, where he last visited in 2022. He expressed that he feels at home and encouraged the youth to make the most of the opportunities provided by good leadership.
Diouf is in Rwanda attending the African Sports and Investment Forum, ‘SportsBiz Africa Forum 2024,’ taking place at the Kigali Convention Centre from September 26-27, 2024.
During his speech, the Senegalese said, “First of all, I thank all Rwandans for the warm welcome. Honestly, since I arrived here, I’ve had no issues, and I feel like I’m at home.”
Diouf mentioned that he is well aware of the strong relationship between the two countries, and each time he visits Rwanda, he notices positive changes due to the country’s good leadership.
“When you look at the infrastructure here, it is similar to what our president, Macky Sarr, has given us. The two countries are friends, and both presidents, Kagame and Macky Sarr, are also close friends. I know this because Macky Sarr is someone close to me.”
“They are both leaders who value the youth. Honestly, I wasn’t here long ago, but each time I come, I find something new. This shows that you have a good leader, a leader you should trust, follow, and be proud of, someone who is recognized across Africa because everyone sees the progress you’re making. It’s important to emphasize that.”
He urged the youth to have no excuses in seizing the opportunities provided by the Rwandan government, as the sports infrastructure is available, not only for Rwandans but for Africa as a whole.
Diouf, 43, is best known for his performances in the 2002 World Cup when he captained the Senegalese national team and played for major clubs such as Liverpool, Leeds United, and other teams in England, Rennes, and Lens in France, among others.
