Shooting Touch Rwanda advances gender and health equity through sport #rwanda #RwOT

The event, held in Rilima Sector, Bugesera District, was organized by Shooting Touch, an international sport-for-development organization based in Boston, Massachusetts in partnership with the district leadership.

It highlighted the intersection of gender equity and public health. Through basketball competitions and open discussions, community leaders emphasized the need to challenge traditional gender norms and improve health awareness.

Notably, the event provided free health screenings for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and HIV, allowing more than 157 community members to access vital health information and medical support.

Local officials underscored the importance of such initiatives in fostering inclusive development. Appolinarie Bamurange, the Gender Monitoring Officer, stressed that achieving gender equality requires collective action and systemic change.

'Everyone's rights matter and must be fully respected. Our country's vision is shared and equal welfare, security, and protection of every citizen, with no gender-based discrimination,' she said.

'We must put all our efforts together and find solutions to the challenges we encounter. This will lead us to common and shared development, where no one is left behind because of being male or female,' she added.

The basketball competitions played a central role in showcasing the capabilities of women and youth. Four competitive matches featured women's teams, U13 youth teams, and U18 girls' and boys' teams from Rilima and Mayange Sectors.

These games not only provided a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their skills but also challenged the societal perception that sports are predominantly male domains.

There is a societal perception that sports are predominantly male domains.

Ephraim Sebarundi, the Executive Secretary of Rilima Sector, highlighted the value of integrating gender equality principles through sports.

'The Mayange and Rilima women's teams have shown us outstanding basketball matches. I am sure they could even win against the men! Together, let's appreciate this gender equality in sports and integrate gender equality principles into the lives of young boys and men,' he said.

Beyond the court, the event advanced community health efforts. Free NCD and HIV screenings targeted individuals aged 35-80, increasing access to early detection and medical advice.

Health professionals on site provided counseling and referred individuals with serious health concerns to district hospitals for further care.

According to Benjamin Tuyishimire, the Health Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, the goal was to empower individuals to take control of their health.

'It's important for individuals to know their health status and to encourage them to visit health facilities and take initiative in improving their well-being,' he explained.

The success of this initiative underscores the transformative potential of sports in addressing social challenges.

By combining athletic engagement with public health outreach and gender advocacy, the community is fostering a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of gender or social status.