The Basketball for Girls in Schools Programme (2026–2030) has officially entered its implementation phase following a successful three-day coaching clinic held in Kigali. The clinic took place from January 16 to 18 at Zaria Courts Kigali and LDK Gymnasium, bringing together 22 coaches from 20 high schools across the country—an indication of Rwanda’s growing commitment to the development of girls’ basketball at school level. ALSO READ: New girls' basketball programme to benefit 30 schools Led by Rwanda Basketball Federation (FERWABA) National Technical Director and FIBA Instructor Moise Mutokambali, the clinic focused on equipping coaches with both technical expertise and holistic coaching skills tailored to youth development. The first two days addressed coaching roles and values, alongside individual basketball skills in offense and defense. Coaches also received training in youth strength and conditioning, offensive and defensive concepts through on-court sessions, and sports psychology. The clinic concluded with practical sessions focusing on Under-15 girls’ strength and conditioning, team offensive principles, and defensive systems. Beyond capacity building, the clinic marked a key milestone for the Basketball for Girls in Schools Programme. According to Sport4Change Foundation, the next immediate step will be the selection of five high schools to participate in the programme’s first implementation phase. Speaking at the closing ceremony, Sport4Change Foundation Chief Executive Officer Jean d’Amour Bizimana described the clinic as the foundation of a broader long-term vision. “We sincerely thank FERWABA as our key partner, together with participating high schools and dedicated coaches, for joining us in empowering girls through basketball,” Bizimana said. “This programme builds healthy habits, academic excellence, and strengthens Rwanda’s national women’s teams starting with U16 by nurturing future champions who will represent our country with pride and excellence.” Following the workshop, Sport4Change Foundation, in collaboration with FERWABA, will select five pilot schools where the programme will officially begin in February 2026. Bizimana expressed hope that additional partners will support the initiative, enabling it to exceed its target of reaching 30 schools by 2030. The selected schools will serve as pilot institutions where trained coaches will implement structured basketball programmes for girls, focusing on talent identification, safe and inclusive sporting environments, academic balance, and long-term athlete development. Lessons learned during this phase will guide the programme’s expansion in the coming years. FERWABA Executive Director François Régis Gahuranyi reminded coaches of their central role in ensuring the programme’s success at school level. “Each coach here was selected for a reason,” Gahuranyi said. “Your responsibility is to return to your schools and develop young talent, while promoting gender equality within the game. Basketball must benefit the athlete both on and off the court.” He reaffirmed FERWABA’s commitment to working closely with Sport4Change Foundation, schools, and partners to ensure sustainable impact. As Rwanda continues to invest in youth development and women’s sport, the Basketball for Girls in Schools Programme is emerging as a vital pathway linking grassroots school basketball to national team success, while empowering young girls through education, health, and opportunity.
