Nyanza, Rwanda: Over 200 children descended upon Saint Peter Igihozo on December 14th for a vibrant basketball festival, celebrating International Basketball Day with a focus on gender equality and equity. The event organized with the support of FIBA Basketball for Good and in partnership with FERWABA (Rwanda Basketball Federation), was a week-long celebration of the sport’s power to unite and inspire.
The festival, themed “United on the Court: Promoting Gender Equality and Equity Through Basketball” and “Hoops For All: Inclusion Through Basketball,” offered a diverse range of activities. From thrilling basketball tournaments to captivating traditional Rwandan dance performances, there was something for everyone. Children had the opportunity to connect with one another, learn about the importance of gender equality, and simply have fun.
Fatuma Mukamugema, a FIBA Ambassador, highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “Basketball is more than just a sport—it is a powerful tool for fostering gender equality, collaboration, and unity. Today, we showcased how boys and girls can come together to connect, share ideas, and enjoy a sport that bridges divides.” Mukamugema expressed hope that this event would become an annual tradition, further solidifying basketball’s role in promoting inclusivity and equity.
