“Toutes en Sport” Exhibition Shines a Spotlight on Women Breaking Barriers in Rwandan Sports

Rwanda’s sports community witnessed a remarkable moment on October 8, 2025, as the “Toutes en Sport” photo exhibition opened at the Centre Culturel Francophone du Rwanda (CCFR) in Kigali.

The exhibition, organized by PLAY International Rwanda, showcases the inspiring journeys of women, girls, and people with disabilities who are breaking barriers in sports. Through 28 photos and personal stories, it tells of their challenges, achievements, and the hope they bring to the next generation.

“This exhibition is about more than photos,” said Pascaline Curtet, the Country Representative of PLAY International Rwanda. “It’s about visibility, courage, and the message that every girl and woman has a place in sport.”

A Conversation About Women and Sport in Rwanda

During the launch, a panel discussion under the theme “Sport and Women in Rwanda — Call to Action” brought together key figures in the sector, including:

Aurélie Royet-Gounin, French Ambassador to Rwanda, Dr. Clairon Niyonsenga, MINISPORTS Representative and ISONGA Project Manager, Félicité Rwemarika, Founder of AKWOS and IOC Member, Liliane Mukobwanakawe, Captain of the National Para-Volleyball Team

Aurélie Royet-Gounin, French Ambassador to Rwanda

Isonga program: https://www.afd.fr/en/actualites/isonga-program-rwandas-sports-future

The discussion focused on what needs to be done to create more space for women and girls in sports, from schools to communities and professional levels.

Ambassador Aurélie Royet-Gounin said France considers sports diplomacy an important tool for promoting peace and equality.

“France is proud to support initiatives like ISONGA and to work with partners like the Ministry of Sports and CCFR,” she said. “Together, we’re helping build opportunities that empower girls and women while strengthening communities.”

Government Commitment to Equal Access

Representing the Ministry of Sports, Dr. Clairon Niyonsenga spoke about Rwanda’s ambition to become a sports hub for Africa by 2050.

“To achieve this, we must increase girls’ participation in sport,” she said. “Through the ISONGA Project, we’re promoting sport in secondary schools. We started with 17 schools, and now we have 42, each district has a center, plus a national center of excellence.”

She explained that the government is also investing in gymnasiums, changing rooms, and modern sport facilities to make sure girls have equal access.

Dr Clairon Niyonsenga Project Manager at Ministry of Sport in Rwanda

“Sport is about access,” she added. “Once we build the right infrastructure, the rest depends on us, working together to reach 50/50 participation.”

Changing Mindsets and Inspiring the Next Generation

Veteran sports leader Félicité Rwemarika said women’s involvement in sport has come a long way, though challenges remain.

“In the past, people used to believe that girls shouldn’t play sport or develop muscles,” she said with a smile. “Today, parents are encouraging their daughters, and we’re seeing more women becoming athletes, coaches, and referees.”

She emphasized that more work is needed for true equality: “Policies are important, but we all, parents, coaches, civil society, have to keep working hand in hand.”

Felecite Rwemarika-Founder and CEO of AKWOS-Organisation of Women in Sport

Strength Through Inclusion

For Liliane Mukobwanakawe, captain of the national women’s sitting volleyball team, inclusion means dignity and pride.

“Some people used to think we played just for pity,” she said. “But we’ve proved that wrong. Today, our team is number one in Africa and fifth in the world.”

Her message to young girls and women with disabilities was simple but powerful: “Don’t let anyone tell you what you can’t do. Sport is for everyone.”

Liliane Mukobwankawe professional Para-athlete sharing her testimonies

More Than Just an Exhibition

The “Toutes en Sport” exhibition will continue at CCFR until Wednesday, giving visitors a chance to experience stories of resilience, equality, and empowerment through sport.

For many, it’s not just a collection of photos — it’s a call for action to promote inclusion and gender equality in Rwanda’s sports sector. It reminds everyone that progress starts when every person gets the opportunity to play, lead, and inspire others.

Partners Behind the Event

The exhibition was made possible through collaboration between PLAY International Rwanda and its partners: PLAN International Rwanda, AKWOS, CCFR, the French Embassy in Rwanda, Ministry of Sports, National Paralympic Committee Rwanda, AFD, Humanity & Inclusion, and FERWAFA.