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The North London club has confirmed that its much-debated sponsorship agreement with Visit Rwanda will expire in June this upcoming year.

Context and Criticism

This deal, estimated to cost around £10 million annually, began in 2018 and has since come under fire.

This criticism is due to Rwanda's alleged support for the M23 rebel group in ongoing conflicts in the eastern areas of the neighboring Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Earlier this year, Arsenal was criticized for committing a disrespectful act to the authorities in Congo by failing to convene with the DRC's foreign minister to discuss the partnership.

Partnership Structure and Objectives

Visit Rwanda functions as a division of the Rwanda Development Board, which is a public entity.

It is widely believed that Arsenal committed to and upheld this partnership primarily to expand their fanbase in Africa.

Nonetheless, the partnership has now terminated after both parties “jointly decided” to go their separate ways.

“Collaboratively, Arsenal and the Rwanda Development Board have surpassed the initial objectives of the partnership – promoting conservation and sustainable tourism, motivating countless fans to explore Rwanda, and creating a lasting foundation for travel industry expansion,” read an Gunners' release.

The release further noted that the partnership has also supported Rwanda's goal of becoming an worldwide athletic destination in Africa and host more global sporting events while implementing local football projects that have supported many aspiring footballers and coaches develop their skills and encourage more involvement in athletics nationwide.

Leadership View and Supporter Response

Richard Garlick, Arsenal's top executive, described the partnership as a “important voyage” and asserted it had been “driving forward” the club's aspirations.

But that is not how a segment of the club's followers, with the activist organization Gunners for Peace holding rallies outside the Emirates Stadium during the initial Champions League semi-final match against PSG in late April.

Activists unveiled a sign stating “Terminate the Visit Rwanda Partnership” and handed out sleeves to cover up the Rwanda branding on jerseys.

Broader Context and Other Clubs

Around that time, PSG extended their sponsorship arrangement with Visit Rwanda until 2028.

Meanwhile, the Spanish club signed a fresh deal for the equivalent timeframe that has caused the emblem appearing on the Madrid-based team's men's and women's shirts.