Kigali Arena gets new management

Rwanda's 10,000-seat multipurpose arena, the Kigali Arena, is set to undergo a significant transformation as QA Venue Solutions takes over its management for the next seven years. The agreement between the company and the government of Rwanda marks a new chapter in the arena's history, with ambitious plans to enhance the space and bring a wide array of events to the African continent. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Director Kyle Schofield provided insights into the partnership and outlined the strategic direction for the arena's future. Schofield expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with the Ministry of Sports and highlighted the long-term commitment to investing in the arena. With a focus on enhancing systems, online capabilities, and overall usability, QA Venue Solutions aims to establish the Kigali Arena as a premier destination for eventing not only in Rwanda but across Africa. By working closely with local organizations, the goal is to create a diverse calendar of events that will boost the economy and elevate the profile of event management in the region. The financial commitment from QA Venue Solutions amounts to approximately 2.4 million US dollars over the seven-year period, with a strong emphasis on upgrading systems, attracting international events, and ensuring operational excellence. Schofield emphasized the importance of leveraging their extensive experience in the industry, spanning four decades, to drive innovation and growth within the arena. Addressing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the sports and entertainment sector, Schofield shared the company's strategy for adapting to the current situation. By aligning with government protocols and international best practices, QA Venue Solutions is implementing measures such as social distancing and enhanced sanitization to create a safe environment for patrons. The company's proactive approach to combating COVID-19 reflects a commitment to prioritizing public health and safety. When considering potential changes to the Kigali Arena, Schofield stressed the importance of maintaining continuity while enhancing the overall experience for visitors. With a focus on streamlining existing operations and improving customer interactions, QA Venue Solutions aims to strike a balance between innovation and familiarity. The goal is to instill confidence in patrons by demonstrating a strong commitment to their well-being and comfort. In terms of marketing strategy, QA Venue Solutions is actively engaging with industry stakeholders and promoting the versatility of the arena as a venue for a wide range of events. From basketball games to banquet events, conferences, awards evenings, and concerts, the Kigali Arena offers a diverse array of possibilities for event organizers and attendees. By fostering inclusivity and collaboration within the industry, QA Venue Solutions seeks to position the arena as a dynamic hub for entertainment and cultural exchange. The partnership between QA Venue Solutions and the government of Rwanda signals a promising future for the Kigali Arena, paving the way for innovation, growth, and community engagement. With a shared commitment to excellence and a focus on sustainability, the arena is poised to become a flagship venue in the eventing industry, setting new standards for quality and innovation.