The Rwanda Amputee Football Federation (RAFA) has announced a series of nationwide amputee football matches aimed at raising awareness, promoting disability inclusion, and supporting national preparations for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), to be commemorated on 3 December 2025.
This year’s IDPD will be celebrated under the theme:“Building inclusive societies for persons with disabilities to drive social progress.”National events will take place in Nyabihu District, Western Province, with a special focus on strengthening inclusion in rural communities.
Rwanda’s Disability Context Underscores the Need for Action
According to the 2022 National Census, Rwanda counts 391,775 persons aged five and above living with disabilities, representing 3.4% of the population. Prevalence is higher in rural areas (3.7%) compared to urban areas (2.8%). Visual impairments (1.4%) and mobility challenges (1.1%) are among the most common disabilities.
Despite progress, many individuals remain unregistered or disconnected from essential services, limiting their access to education, health care, assistive devices, and social protection.
In highlighting this challenge, the Executive Secretary of the National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPD) recently stated: “If you see someone crawling when they should have a wheelchair, that is negligence.”This year, the Government will distribute 372 wheelchairs and various assistive devices—including equipment for 272 learners—as part of efforts to translate inclusive policies into measurable action.
RAFA Uses Sport to Break Barriers
Through its new awareness campaign, RAFA is leveraging amputee football as a tool to promote visibility, challenge stigma, and drive community-level dialogue about disability rights.
The series of matches will be held in districts across the country leading up to IDPD 2025. The events aim to showcase the talent and resilience of amputee athletes while encouraging families, institutions, and local authorities to support inclusive sports and accessibility initiatives.
Leadership Statements
RAFA President, Audace RUGWIRO:
“As we approach IDPD 2025, we want every Rwandan to recognize the strength and abilities of our amputee footballers. Through these matches, we are demonstrating that inclusion must be lived in all communities. We call upon partners and stakeholders to work with us to ensure no person with a disability is left behind.”
Vice President for Administration & Awareness, Louis KWIZERA to add:
“Awareness is not a one-day activity. Our matches bring disability issues to the forefront and encourage communities to confront stigma. For inclusion to be real, it must be supported by accessibility, participation, and continuous advocacy.”
A Call to Strengthen Inclusive Development
RAFA’s initiative aligns with national priorities and urges further action in key areas, including:
• Improved identification of persons with disabilities, especially in rural districts
• Regular and equitable distribution of assistive devices
• Accessible schools, health facilities, and public infrastructure
• Expanded inclusive education and prevention of school dropout
• Community-level awareness campaigns across the country
• Meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in policy and decision-making
The Rwanda Amputee Football Federation (RAFA) promotes amputee football as a tool for rehabilitation, empowerment, and social inclusion. The association works to support amputee footballers raise awareness on disability rights, and strengthen community engagement through sports.
