Can Rwanda’s Amputee Football Rise to Global Success Despite Challenges?

By The Inspirer.

Founded in 2015, Rwanda Amputee Football Amateur (RAFA) emerged from a group of former street amputees in Kimisagara, Nyarugenge District, with a shared dream of finding strength and community through sport.

What started as a small team in Kigali has evolved into a movement, with programs now spanning across 15 districts and including both men and women. RAFA has not only provided a platform for amputees but has also empowered athletes to compete at national and international levels.

RAFA’s growth from two teams to a network of district-level teams speaks to the commitment of Rwanda’s amputee athletes.

According to RAFA President and Founder of Amputee Football in Rwanda, Audace Rugwiro, the organization’s successes go beyond simple accomplishments.

“Our achievements aren’t just words; they’re real, tangible progress that has impacted the lives of our athletes,” Rugwiro shared.

In 2017, RAFA held its first national championship, marking the start of a journey that has since brought Rwanda recognition on the international stage.

Building on this momentum, Rugwiro was elected in 2018 as chairman of Confederation of East and Central Africa Amputee Football (CECAFA). The following year, RAFA competed in its first regional tournament and claimed victory, defeating Kenya 3-1 in the final match among five countries that participated.

“Winning the CECAFA tournament was a defining moment for us,” Rugwiro said. “It showed that we have the talent and dedication to represent Rwanda at the highest levels.”

Also in 2019, Rwanda became a member of the World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) and the Confederation of Africa Amputee Football (CAAF), establishing RAFA as a recognized country in the global amputee football community.

Expanding Opportunities for Women and Youth

RAFA’s commitment to inclusivity led to the launch of the Women’s Amputee Football program and a U-15 Junior Program in 2021.

“The creation of these programs is vital to us,” Rugwiro explained. “We want everyone to have the chance to play, regardless of age or gender.”

In 2022, RAFA organized a training session for local coaches and referees with the WAFF Secretary General, who also discussed potential partnerships with FERWAFA, Rwanda’s football federation. The Secretary General awarded RAFA’s amputee football for having completed all the team categories; women, men and junior, a certificate of appreciation that was provided the first time in the history.

That same year, RAFA celebrated a major milestone: three of its players were invited to play professionally in Turkey’s top league.

“This was a historic achievement,” said Rugwiro. “They were the first Rwandan amputees to compete professionally, showing the world that our players have what it takes to succeed internationally.”

Strengthening Partnerships with FERWAFA

In 2023, RAFA formalized its commitment to developing amputee football by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FERWAFA. This partnership is intended to promote amputee football across Rwanda and open new doors for athletes.

Additionally, FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Rwanda’s former Minister of Sports, Mimosa Munyangaju, launched WAFF’s global Women’s Amputee Football program at an event in Rwanda, further highlighting RAFA’s role in advancing the sport.

Overcoming Challenges on the Road to Success

Despite its progress, RAFA faces considerable challenges, including a lack of essential equipment, such as specialized crutches and durable footballs.

“Our players need the right equipment to perform at their best,” Rugwiro noted. “We also need more coaches and more opportunities to compete. It is tough to grow without these basics.”

To address these issues, RAFA is working towards gaining full federation status and securing a partnership with Rwanda’s Ministry of Sports.

“We want to be recognized as a formal federation,” Rugwiro emphasized. “We are in the process of registering three teams and obtaining recommendations from the Ministry so we can complete our registration with the Rwanda Governance Board (RGB). This will help us access the resources we need to grow amputee football in Rwanda.” explains Rugwiro.

A Spotlight on Rwanda’s Women Amputee Team

Rwanda’s Women Amputee Football team has not only gained national attention but has also drawn admiration worldwide. Known for their dedication and regular participation in championships, the team has been praised by FIFA President Gianni Infantino.

“Our women’s team is an inspiration,” Rugwiro said proudly. “Infantino himself called them a model for the global amputee community.”

However, Rwanda’s Women Amputee Football Team faced a setback in November 2024, missing out the WAFF women Amputee football world cup that was slated to take place in Columbia.

Besides, their brothers, men team, also did not manage to participate in the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations (AAFCON), which also serves as a World Cup qualifier.

A Vision for the Future

RAFA’s journey is a testament to resilience and the power of sport to unite and uplift.

“We’re building something meaningful,” Rugwiro reflected. “Our goal is to see Rwanda recognized in international amputee football and to give our athletes the platform they deserve.”

With RAFA’s progress and a focus on fostering community, Rwanda’s amputee football movement is setting the stage for future success.

Rugwiro emphasized that while RAFA has achieved significant milestones, much more can be accomplished with dedicated partners and sponsors—something the organization currently lacks.

“We’ve come a long way, but there’s much more to achieve,” Rugwiro said. “With the right partners, we can secure essential equipment and training for coaches and players. Support is crucial to elevate amputee football globally and inspire communities everywhere.”

 

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