In a social media post shared on Monday, December 8, 2025, Flamini reflected on his recent visit to the country, a journey that blended conservation, culture, and community engagement.
Flamini, now CEO of GFBiochemicals and widely recognised for championing environmental innovation, was invited by the Government of Rwanda in his capacity as an Arsenal ambassador. His visit highlighted Rwanda's growing reputation as a global model for sustainability and eco-tourism.
During his stay, Flamini attended the 20th edition of the Kwita Izina baby gorilla naming ceremony, held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at the foothills of Volcanoes National Park in Kinigi, Musanze District. Thousands of Rwandans, conservation partners, international guests and friends of Rwanda gathered for the annual event, which celebrates the protection and expansion of Rwanda's mountain gorilla population.
Flamini had the privilege of naming a baby gorilla Rubuga, a male born on November 30, 2024. The name means 'platform', symbolising a foundation for growth and progress, values closely tied to Rwanda's conservation journey.
Other international stars who joined the ceremony included Argentine and PSG legend Javier Pastore, Grammy-nominated Nigerian Afropop singer Yemi Alade, UNDP Goodwill Ambassador and award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh Todt, and former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna.
Flamini said his time in Rwanda left a lasting emotional impact, particularly his close encounter with Rambo's gorilla family inside Volcanoes National Park.
'Spending a day with Rambo's gorilla family, just a meter and a half from a silverback, was a calm, powerful reminder of our place in nature and our responsibility to protect it,' he wrote.
â€" Mathieu flamini (@mathieuflamini) December 8, 2025
He highlighted the extraordinary dedication of Rwandan communities who have transformed tourism into a sustainable, community-driven economy.
Rwanda's monthly nationwide community service day, Umuganda, also caught his attention as a powerful cultural practice shaping the country's environmental leadership.
Flamini was also received by President Paul Kagame, with whom he discussed Rwanda's long-term sustainability strategy, environmental protection efforts, and the country's forward-looking approach to green growth.
'Rwanda's leadership in addressing climate change left a strong impression on me,' he noted. 'It's an approach many countries could learn from.'
In his reflection, Flamini emphasised that what moved him most was the spirit of the Rwandan people, their unity, resilience, and remarkable journey of rebuilding.
'A nation that has faced immense hardship now stands as a testament to resilience and unity,' he said.
'The warmth and openness of its people left me with a quiet but lasting sense of hope.'
Flamini closed his message by thanking President Kagame, Arsenal Football Club and the people of Rwanda for making his experience meaningful.
'Rwanda will forever hold a place in my heart.'
His words add to the growing international voices recognising Rwanda as a leader in conservation, sustainable tourism, and community-centred development and reaffirm the global significance of initiatives like Kwita Izina in shaping a greener future.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
