Mamdani attended the prayers held at Macombs Dam Park in New York’s Bronx borough, where thousands of Muslims gathered to mark one of the most important holidays in Islam. Eid Al-Adha, celebrated during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, commemorates faith, sacrifice, and devotion, and coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.

The New York mayor’s appearance in the “Visit Rwanda” attire comes months after Rwanda expanded its sports marketing partnerships in the United States through the Visit Rwanda campaign.

In September 2025, Rwanda launched partnerships with major American sports franchises, including the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Rams, aimed at promoting Rwanda’s tourism, investment opportunities, and cultural identity to global audiences.

The partnerships added to Rwanda’s growing international sports branding strategy, which already includes collaborations with top European football clubs such as Arsenal F.C., Paris Saint-Germain F.C., FC Bayern Munich, and Atlético Madrid.

Born in Uganda, Mamdani made history in November 2025 after being elected Mayor of New York City and becoming the first mayor of the city to take the oath of office using the Qur’an, reflecting his Muslim faith.