ston Villa’s Chief Commercial Officer, Francesco Calvo, and former player James Chester are among the sports personalities who will participate in Rwanda’s Kwita Izina ceremony by naming gorilla babies.
The 21st edition of the Kwita Izina ceremony will take place on Friday, September 4, 2026, in Kinigi, Musanze District, where 22 gorilla babies will be given names.
Sports Personalities Join Rwanda’s Tourism Promotion
As part of Rwanda’s efforts to promote tourism, including sports tourism, several international sports personalities have been invited to participate in the ceremony.
Among them are representatives of Aston Villa, the English Premier League club that recently entered into a partnership with Rwanda through the Visit Rwanda initiative.
Francesco Calvo Highlights Aston Villa’s Partnership with Rwanda
Aston Villa’s Chief Commercial Officer, Francesco Calvo, will represent the club at the ceremony.
He said the partnership between Aston Villa and Visit Rwanda would help the club strengthen its presence in Africa while also contributing to the development and promotion of football on the continent.
The partnership is part of Rwanda’s broader efforts to use sports to promote the country as a tourism destination and strengthen international connections.
James Chester’s Career at Aston Villa
James Grant Chester is another Aston Villa representative expected to participate in the gorilla naming ceremony.
Chester enjoyed a long career in English football and played for Aston Villa between 2016 and 2020. During his time at the club, he made around 120 appearances and served as captain.
He also played an important role in helping Aston Villa return to the Premier League.
Chester Began His Career at Manchester United
Chester began his professional career at Manchester United in 2007, although he made only a few appearances for the club.
He was later loaned to Peterborough United, Plymouth Argyle and Carlisle United before leaving Manchester United permanently for Hull City.
After spending four years at Hull City, Chester moved to West Bromwich Albion, where he spent one season before joining Aston Villa.
From Aston Villa to Other English Clubs
After his time at Aston Villa, Chester continued his career with several English clubs.
In 2020, he was loaned to Stoke City during his final year at Aston Villa. He later left Aston Villa in 2023 and joined Derby County.
Towards the end of his playing career, he represented Barrow and Salford City in the fourth tier of English football.
Chester’s International Career
Chester also represented the Wales national team and participated in international competitions.
His international career added another dimension to his experience in professional football before he eventually moved towards life after playing.
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Other Football Stars in Rwanda
Chester and Calvo are not the only international football figures expected to participate in activities surrounding Kwita Izina.
Other notable sports personalities visiting Rwanda include former French internationals Patrice Evra and Mamadou Sakho, who also built successful careers with major English clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool.
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Kwita Izina Brings Tourism and Sports Together
The participation of international football personalities in Kwita Izina highlights the growing connection between Rwanda’s tourism and sports sectors.
By bringing together global sports figures and one of Rwanda’s most internationally recognised conservation events, the country continues to use major sporting relationships to promote its tourism attractions and strengthen its visibility around the world.
