The National Basketball Association (NBA) has rejected a call from two US senators to suspend its partnership with Rwanda. In a letter dated November 3, 2026, NBA Deputy Commissioner Mark Tatum said the league will continue its collaboration with Rwanda, citing its commitment to following US government policies on international business dealings. Tatum's response was to Senators Jeff Merkley and Marsha Blackburn, who had urged the NBA to reconsider its ties with Rwanda due to concerns over human rights and the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The senators had expressed concerns about Rwanda's alleged support for the M23 rebel group in the DRC and human rights abuses. They also questioned whether the NBA's continued partnership with Rwanda was consistent with its stated commitment to protecting human rights. Tatum emphasized that the NBA does not condone human rights abuses and will adjust its business dealings as necessary. He noted that the league had already taken steps to comply with US sanctions on Rwanda, citing the withdrawal of APR Basketball Club from the 2026 Basketball Africa League.
The NBA's partnership with Rwanda is part of its efforts to develop basketball in Africa. The league has a deal with the Rwanda Development Board (RDB) and the Basketball Africa League (BAL) to host games in Kigali. Despite the senators' concerns, Tatum said the NBA will continue to work with Rwanda, citing the importance of basketball as a tool for development and diplomacy. He also noted that the league's decisions on international partnerships will be guided by US government policies and directives.
The conflict in the DRC has been a source of tension between Rwanda and the international community. Rwanda has denied allegations of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has been accused of human rights abuses. The US government has imposed sanctions on Rwandan military and civilian entities, citing concerns over human rights and regional stability. The NBA's decision to maintain its partnership with Rwanda may be seen as a vote of confidence in the country's efforts to develop its basketball sector.
The senators' letter was part of a broader effort to pressure the NBA to take a stronger stance on human rights issues in Africa. Merkley and Blackburn had previously expressed concerns about the NBA's partnership with Rwanda in 2024. Their latest letter was prompted by changes in US policy on Africa and concerns about Rwanda's role in the DRC conflict. The NBA's response highlights the challenges faced by international sports leagues in balancing business interests with social responsibility.
The NBA's commitment to human rights is a key aspect of its international business dealings. The league has taken steps to promote human rights and social justice through its various programs and partnerships. Tatum's letter emphasized that the NBA will continue to prioritize human rights in its decision-making, while also working to develop basketball in Africa. The league's partnership with Rwanda is seen as an important part of its efforts to promote basketball on the continent.
The NBA's decision to reject the call to suspend its partnership with Rwanda has implications for the development of basketball in Africa. The league's continued collaboration with Rwanda may help to promote basketball in the country and provide opportunities for local players. However, the controversy highlights the challenges faced by international sports leagues in navigating complex geopolitical issues. The NBA's commitment to following US government policies on international business dealings will likely continue to guide its decision-making on partnerships with countries in Africa and elsewhere.
Key points
- The NBA has rejected a call from US senators to suspend its partnership with Rwanda, citing its commitment to following US government policies on international business dealings.
