The second edition of the wheelchair basketball tournament will take place at BK Arena on March 2; Time Sports has learned.
The tournament, dubbed "Sports on Wheels” is a brain child of Meshack Rwampungu, a veteran basketball player who currently captains the national wheelchair basketball team.
Organisers are optimistic that the competition will, among other benefits, redefine the narrative of inclusivity, proving that disability is not an obstacle but a unique strength.
Rwampungu in drive to connect people through Wheelchair Basketball
The first edition, held in 2023, ended in Team Meshack’s favor, after edging star point guard Nshozwabyosenumukiza’s team 33-21.
Rwampungu is a resilient individual whose journey took a bumpy turn on March 2, 2015, after experiencing an accident whose permanent injuries he sustains.
Wheelchair-bound since that life-altering day, Mechack has transformed his experience into a catalyst for positive change, dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
The heartbeat of Sports on Wheels is the powerful message that "disability is not inability."
According to Rwampungu, the day also echoes a rallying cry for inclusivity, emphasizing that diversity enriches our community and that everyone, regardless of physical abilities, deserves the chance to showcase their strength and talent.
The event features wheelchair basketball matches, a visual representation of unity where individuals with disabilities and star able-bodied players will join forces on the court.
The game becomes a canvas where differences blur, and the shared passion for sport takes center stage.
Beyond just the matches, the initiative is extended to engraining the message of inclusivity in the community.
A week of awareness focused on accessibility, road safety with Gerayo Amahoro program and inclusion is in the works, extending the impact far beyond the arena.
"One of the key take-home messages of Sports on Wheels is encapsulated in the phrase, "Shooting for Inclusion." It's a call to action, urging society to reevaluate preconceived notions and to actively work towards creating an environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued”.
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The star-studded lineup of able-bodied players and celebrities, including Rapper Bull Dog, Miss Rwanda 2020 Naomie Nishimwe, Uncle Austin, Adonis Filer, Michael Dixon, Jean-Jacques Wilson Nshobozwabyosenumukiza, Aristide Mugabe, Isimbi Model, Nep Djs, and many more, emphasizes the collective effort towards inclusion.
These influential figures stepping into wheelchairs for the cause demonstrates that the power to effect change lies in our collective actions.
"As we look ahead to Sports on Wheels, let it serve as a beacon of inspiration. Disability is not a limit but a unique vantage point, and together, through sports and community, we can shoot for a future that embraces the strength found in diversity.
"In the spirit of inclusivity, let us rally behind the message that disability is not inability, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to shine, both on and off the court,” Rwampungu said.