Kigali, May 20 — The Basketball Africa League (BAL), in partnership with Special Olympics Rwanda, reaffirmed its commitment to inclusion by hosting a Unified Celebrity Game during Day 3 of the Nile Conference at BK Arena.
For the fourth consecutive year, BAL has supported Special Olympics Rwanda with basketball clinics and unified game — unique experiences where athletes with and without intellectual disabilities share the court with public figures.
Dr. Tharcisse Ngambe, Chairman of the Board of Special Olympics Rwanda, spoke during the event, highlighting the powerful impact of the partnership:
“Some had lost hope and felt incapable, but playing alongside individuals without intellectual disabilities — including celebrities — helped them build confidence, improve their abilities, and feel a sense of belonging in an inclusive society,” he said.
At the event, BAL and Special Olympics Rwanda brought together athletes and celebrities for the Unified Celebrity Game to celebrate inclusion, with Rwanda’s Sports Minister Nelly Mukazayire, BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall, and NBA legend Luol Deng joining to promote unity and talent.
In her remarks, Minister Mukazayire commended BAL for its inclusive initiatives:
“We thank BAL for providing this opportunity and making it possible. These are talented and special people. Recognizing their presence, their abilities, their movement, and their spirit gives us a powerful response. Sport creates an inclusive space that brings people together.” Minister of Sports said.
She further encouraged the athletes, reminding them of their value and uniqueness:
“You are talented. You are special!”
This initiative is a reflection of BAL’s broader mission to use basketball as a platform for social impact — empowering individuals of all abilities and fostering inclusive communities across the continent.
In Season 5, the BAL pays tribute to NBA Hall of Famer Dikembe Mutombo, a passionate advocate for inclusion who inspired youth with intellectual disabilities at the 2022 BAL–Special Olympics Rwanda Basketball Clinic.
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