International Day of Play 2025: Boccia as a Game-Changer for Inclusion in Rwanda
Championing Inclusion through Boccia in Rwanda
On the International Day of Play, 11 June 2025, UNICEF Rwanda stood side-by-side with children with disabilities, their families, and the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Rwanda to celebrate the transformative power of inclusive play. The day was marked by Boccia competitions — an adaptive sport for persons with physical and mental impairments — bringing together communities, families, government leaders, and development partners in a show of solidarity, joy, and shared humanity.
Boccia: A Sport that Builds Confidence and Breaks Barriers
Through a partnership between UNICEF, NPC Rwanda, and local government authorities in Bugesera and Huye, Boccia is now reshaping the lives of children with cerebral palsy, mental, and physical impairments. It’s more than just a sport—it’s a tool for empowerment and healing.
“I didn’t know that I have a talent… Did you see how I play? I am happy and I always want to win.”
These words capture the confidence and sense of belonging that Boccia inspires — not just in players, but in families and entire communities.
Play as a Pathway to Healing for Families
UNICEF in partnership with the SWISS Natcom - supported parenting programs and Parent Support Groups (PSGs) facilitated by partners like Chance for Childhood, parents are reclaiming hope. Once isolated by stigma, many now lead rehabilitation activities, join Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLAs), and advocate for their children’s rights.
One mother from Huye shared: “My child was once shy and excluded. Today, he plays Boccia with others and dreams of becoming a doctor. Boccia gave him confidence.”
Measurable Impact and Collective Progress
Together with partners, UNICEF interventions have already shown results:
117,863 community members reached through inclusive events and dialogues.
8,973 children with disabilities and caregivers identified and supported.
13,378 parents trained in disability-inclusive care and advocacy.
138 community rehabilitation sites were established.
1,200+ children enrolled in free rehabilitation services.
220+ assistive devices provided to children in need.
UNICEF also trained over 24 media outlets to amplify positive narratives around children with disabilities.
A National Commitment to End Stigma
International Play Day 2025 is a milestone in a broader national journey to dismantle stigma and discrimination. Through sustained collaboration with the Government of Rwanda, National Paralympic Committee (NPC), National council of persons with disabilities (NCPD), National child development agency (NCDA), Umbrella of organizations of persons with disabilities in the fight against HIV&AIDS and in health promotion (UPHLS), and grassroots partners, sports and parenting education are being scaled into national systems — with Boccia at the forefront of inclusive sports programming.
Looking Ahead: Inclusion, One Game at a Time
For UNICEF and its partners, every game of Boccia is a statement: every child deserves to play, grow, and be seen. As Rwanda advances inclusive education, health, and protection services, play remains a vital tool for building bridges between children with disabilities and the communities they live in.
On the International Day of Play, we remember when a child with a disability picks up a Boccia ball; they’re not just playing a game — they’re rewriting the rules of inclusion.
For every child, the right to play. For every family, the power to belong. For every community, hope for inclusion is important.
