The National Basketball Association (NBA) is ushering in a new era for its African division with the appointment of an esteemed investment lawyer, Clare Akamanzi. Ms. Akamanzi, who formerly helmed the Rwanda Development Board for six and a half years, will step into the role of NBA Africa’s CEO on January 23, replacing the inaugural CEO Victor Williams, who will be stepping down at the end of this year.
Prior to this appointment, Ms. Akamanzi gained prominence for her pivotal contributions to Rwanda’s development initiatives, earning her a reputation as a diligent and forward-thinking leader. As she prepares to assume her new role at NBA Africa, her skills and experience will undoubtedly be invaluable assets to the Association’s expansion efforts in Africa.
Her predecessor, Victor Williams, was no less formidable. Before joining the NBA in 2020, he made a name for himself as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. His tenure at NBA Africa was marked by efforts to grow and establish the Association’s presence on the continent.
The decision to hire a top investment lawyer like Ms. Akamanzi attests to the NBA’s ambitious growth plans in Africa. Moreover, it bespeaks a commitment to not just expanding the sport in Africa, but also the business opportunities it presents on the continent.
Further information about this transition is available in the full announcement made by the NBA, which can be found here.