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On 8th October 2025, Rwanda’s sport sector witnessed a historic moment with the opening of the “Toutes en Sport” photo exhibition at the Centre Culturel Francophone du Rwanda (CCFR). Organized by PLAY International Rwanda, the exhibition highlights the journeys of women, girls, and people with disabilities in sport, showing their challenges, achievements, and how they continue to break social barriers.
Featuring 28 inspiring photos and stories, the exhibition captures the triumphs, struggles, and resilience of athletes who overcome obstacles every day. It also reveals the difficulties that young girls face when trying to play sport, while celebrating women role models who inspire others to dream bigger.
Panel Discussion: “Sport and Women in Rwanda — Call to Action”
The exhibition opening included a panel discussion moderated by Pascaline Curtet, Country Representative of PLAY International Rwanda.
The discussion brought together:
- Aurélie Royet-Gounin, French Ambassador to Rwanda,
- Dr. Clairon Niyonsenga, MINISPORTS Representative & ISONGA Project Manager,
- Félicité Rwemarika, Founder of AKWOS & International Olympic Committee Member,
- Liliane Mukobwanakawe, Captain of the National Para-Volleyball Team
The conversation focused on how to create more space and opportunities for girls and women in sport in schools, clubs, and communities.
Aurélie Royet-Gounin, French Ambassador to Rwanda, shared that France considers sport diplomacy an important tool for development and peace. She explained that France supports global goals that use sport to promote inclusion and equality, which aligns with Rwanda’s national priorities. Through partnerships with the French Development Agency (AFD), Expertise France, and CCFR, France will continue to support programs like ISONGA to empower women and girls through sport and infrastructure that strengthens both communities and the economy.
SEE MORE ABOUT ISONGA PROGRAM
Aurélie Royet-Gounin, French Ambassador to Rwanda
Dr. Clairon Niyonsenga emphasized the government’s vision for Rwanda to become a leading sport hub in Africa by 2050. She explained that to reach this goal, girls’ participation in sport must increase. The Ministry is implementing the ISONGA Project, promoting sport in secondary schools. ISONGA Phase 1 worked with 17 schools, and Phase 2 now includes 42 schools with a center in each district and one national center of excellence. The government is also investing in rubber courts, gymnasiums, changing rooms, and essential sport equipment for girls. “Sport is about access,” she said. “Once we have infrastructure, the rest depends on us joining together to achieve 50/50 participation.”
Dr Clairon Niyonsenga Project Manager at Ministry of Sport in Rwanda
Félicité Rwemarika reflected on the progress made in women’s sport, noting that for many years cultural norms kept girls out of sport, as communities believed girls should not develop muscles or play publicly. Today, the situation has changed parents support their daughters, and more girls are becoming athletes, coaches, and referees. However, she reminded the audience that there is still a long way to go: “Policies are being developed, but we all civil society, parents, coaches, and institutions must work hand in hand until we reach equality.”
Félicité Rwemarika, Founder and CEO of AKWOS - Organisation of Women in Sport
Liliane Mukobwanakawe, captain of the national para-volleyball team, spoke about the challenges faced by women with disabilities. “People used to think we played for pity,” she said. “We were told we didn’t deserve to play like boys.” Despite those beliefs, the Rwandan women’s sitting volleyball team has risen to become first in Africa and fifth in the world. Her story reminded everyone that inclusion in sport is not about sympathy, but about ability, courage, and pride.
Liliane Mukobwankawe professional Para-athlete sharing her testimonies
Exhibition Details:
The “Toutes en Sport” exhibition will continue from Friday evening until Wednesday at CCFR, inviting everyone to discover stories of resilience, inclusion, and empowerment through sport.
This event is more than an exhibition it is a call for gender equality and inclusion in sport. It reminds us that every athlete’s journey matters and that Rwanda’s progress depends on giving everyone the opportunity to play, lead, and inspire.
Play International was with partners in execution this including PLAN International Rwanda, AKWOS - Organisation of Women in Sport, Centre Culturel Francophone Rwanda , the French Embassy in Rwanda, Ministry of Sport in Rwanda, National Paralympic Committee Rwanda, Agence Francaise de Developement, Humanity & Inclusion, and FERWAFA - Federation of football in Rwanda, for making this event possible.
