How a Three-Day Wheelchair Basketball Camp is Redefining Ability in Rwanda
By Bruce Kabandana
"Disability is not inability. Sometimes, all people need is an opportunity to show what they can do."
Story Introduction
Disability is often misunderstood, with many people focusing on limitations rather than abilities. However, across Rwanda, a growing movement is proving that inclusion begins when society creates opportunities for everyone to participate equally. One such example is wheelchair basketball, a sport that not only promotes physical activity but also changes perceptions about disability and empowers individuals to reach their full potential.
This photo essay documents a 3-day Wheelchair Basketball Camp held in Kigali at Petit Stade, LDK Gymnasium, and in Bugesera-Imbuto Hub, where athletes with disabilities came together to train, compete, and inspire one another. Led by Coach Dror from Israel's Disabled Veterans Organisation. The camp provided participants with professional coaching, opportunities to improve their technical skills, and a platform to build confidence through teamwork. More than a sporting event, the camp became a symbol of resilience, determination, and equal opportunity.
The event also attracted distinguished guests, including Rwanda's Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, and H.E. Einat Weiss, Ambassador of Israel to Rwanda, whose presence highlighted the importance of government support and international collaboration in promoting disability inclusion. Alongside them, Mechack Rwampungu, Captain of Rwanda's National Wheelchair Basketball Team, served as a role model for aspiring athletes by demonstrating that disability is never a barrier to leadership or excellence.
Through these photographs, the story captures moments of determination, celebration, teamwork, and hope. The images move beyond portraying persons with disabilities as recipients of support and instead present them as skilled athletes, leaders, and active contributors to society. Every photograph reflects the message that inclusion is not an act of charity but a commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all.
This story seeks to challenge stereotypes that continue to surround disability while encouraging readers to appreciate the role of adaptive sports in creating inclusive communities. It also demonstrates how partnerships between government institutions, international organizations, coaches, volunteers, and local communities can contribute to breaking down social barriers. Ultimately, the photo essay reminds us that when people are given access to opportunities rather than defined by their disabilities, they can achieve remarkable things and inspire positive change throughout society.
Reflection
I chose this story because disability inclusion is an important social issue that deserves greater visibility. While many discussions about disability focus on challenges, I wanted to highlight ability, resilience, and achievement. The wheelchair basketball camp provided an excellent opportunity to document how sports can empower persons with disabilities, promote confidence, and encourage social inclusion. I also wanted to show that inclusion requires the support of communities, institutions, and leaders working together to create equal opportunities.
During the photo essay, I encountered several challenges. Capturing fast-moving basketball action while ensuring clear and meaningful images required careful timing and positioning. The indoor environment also presented lighting challenges, making it difficult to photograph some moments without losing image quality. Another challenge was selecting photographs that best represented the entire story, from training and teamwork to leadership and community support. Since the event lasted three days, it was important to organize the photographs into a sequence that communicated a clear and engaging narrative.
Ethical considerations were central throughout the project. I ensured that the photographs portrayed participants with dignity and respect rather than reinforcing stereotypes or portraying them as objects of sympathy. The focus remained on their abilities, achievements, and active participation in sport. Care was also taken to avoid intrusive photography and to respect the privacy and comfort of everyone involved. Finally, I remained committed to presenting the story accurately and honestly, ensuring that the photographs reflected real moments from the event without manipulation or misrepresentation. Through this approach, the photo essay aimed to promote awareness, respect, and appreciation for disability inclusion in Rwanda.
Picture(1-10)
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| Athletes, coaches, volunteers, and partners gather for a group photo at the opening of the three-day wheelchair basketball camp at Imbuto Hub-Bugesera, celebrating the beginning of a shared commitment to inclusion. |
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| Two wheelchair basketball players battle for possession during an intense practice session, demonstrating strength, speed, and technical skill before an engaged audience. |
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| National Wheelchair Basketball Team Captain Mechack Rwampungu demonstrates skills and encourages fellow athletes during a training session. |
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| A filmmaker using a wheelchair documents the basketball camp, demonstrating that disability inclusion extends beyond sport into media and creative professions. |
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| Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire interacts with athletes during the camp, recognizing the role of adaptive sports in promoting inclusion. |
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| Israeli Ambassador H.E. Einat Weiss joins participants, reflecting the importance of international collaboration in advancing disability inclusion through sport at LDG Gymnasium |
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| Athletes participate in practical drills designed to improve ball handling, movement, and teamwork. |
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| A participant celebrates a successful play at Petit Stade during training, capturing the joy and confidence that sport can create. |
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| Young spectators at LDK Gymnasium watch the athletes closely, discovering a new understanding of disability, resilience, and possibility. |
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| Athletes, coaches, volunteers, government leaders, and international partners come together at the close of the camp, symbolizing a shared commitment to building a more inclusive Rwanda. |
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