Kigali welcomed a distinguished guest on the eve of the UCI Road World Championships finale as Prince Albert II of Monaco joined President Paul Kagame and UCI President David Lappartient at the Gala Dinner held at the Kigali Convention Centre.
During his brief stay, Prince Albert toured beekeeping schools in Musanze, operated by the French Observatory of Apidology, witnessing first-hand Rwanda’s efforts to promote sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship.
The prince’s visit to Rwanda underscored a growing collaboration between the two nations across sports, culture, and conservation. He also inaugurated a new primary school in the district, reinforcing his commitment to education and community development.
Beyond ceremonial engagements, the prince engaged in high-level discussions with President Kagame, aimed at deepening bilateral ties and exploring new opportunities for cooperation between Monaco and Rwanda.
Born in 1958, Prince Albert II is the only son of Prince Rainier III and ascended to the throne on July 12, 2005, following his father’s passing earlier that year. Despite Monaco’s size, Prince Albert has leveraged his platform to promote humanitarian initiatives and global sporting excellence.
As the 32nd sovereign ruler of Monaco, the prince has guided the small yet influential city-state on the French Riviera, known worldwide for its wealth, glamour, and dense population.
Sport has been a lifelong passion for Prince Albert. He founded the Monegasque Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation in 1987 and competed as a five-time Olympian. Since 1985, he has been an active member of the International Olympic Committee and has chaired Monaco’s Olympic Committee since 1994.
Recognized for his efforts to promote peace and goodwill through sport, he received the Eagle Award from the United States Sports Academy in 1996.
Beyond athletics, Prince Albert is deeply involved in humanitarian and cultural endeavors. He serves as vice-chairman of the Princess Grace Foundation, which nurtures emerging talent in theatre, dance, and film.
He also holds leadership roles in several international organizations, including Peace and Sport and the Automobile Club de Monaco, combining his love for sport with initiatives that foster social impact.
Prince Albert II’s visit to Rwanda reflects a unique blend of diplomacy, culture, and sport. His presence at the UCI Gala Dinner and engagement with local projects highlight both Monaco’s commitment to global cooperation and Rwanda’s growing influence as a hub for international collaboration.
