Rwanda Hosts the 21st Basketball Without Borders Africa Camp, Highlighting Youth Talent and Development

Johannesburg, South Africa — Rwanda proudly hosted the 21st edition of the Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Africa camp from August 23 to August 26 at Petit Stade and BK Arena in Kigali. This marked the first time the NBA and FIBA’s renowned basketball development program was held in East Africa, showcasing Rwanda as a hub for nurturing young basketball talent across the continent.

The camp brought together 60 of the top high-school boys and girls players from 21 African countries, including Rwanda. Among the notable participants were two prospects from NBA’s Africa Academy. The camp was led by a distinguished panel of coaches and mentors, including Basketball Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings and other NBA legends.

Rwanda was well-represented, with Rwandan participants such as Liliane Ingabire among the girls and Mwesigwa Willilams Sean and Plamedie Bizimana Kayira among the boys. The event also featured prominent Rwandan officials, including Prosper Karangwa, Vice President of the Philadelphia 76ers, who served as a camp director.

The camp provided intensive training through drills, skill stations, three-point contests, and 5-on-5 games, complemented by life skills and leadership workshops. Rwanda’s youth experienced social responsibility activities, including a wheelchair basketball clinic in partnership with FERWABA and a session for elderly women, aimed at promoting inclusivity and community engagement.

Rwandan coaches and officials emphasized the importance of fostering local talent and promoting sports as a tool for social change. The camp’s conclusion featured awards recognizing leadership, sportsmanship, and individual improvement, inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams.

Since its inception in 2001, BWB Africa has impacted over 4,600 participants from 144 countries, including multiple NBA and WNBA players of African origin such as Joel Embiid and Pascal Siakam, both of whom have participated in BWB Africa. Rwanda’s active involvement in this global initiative signifies its commitment to developing basketball and empowering its youth through sport.

Follow updates from #BWBAfrica and learn more at BasketballWithoutBorders.com, as Rwanda continues to shine as a leader in African youth basketball development.