Celebrating Inclusivity: PWD Games at Maseno University

At the Kenya University Sports Federation (KUSF), we are committed to fostering inclusivity and empowerment through sports. The 2nd Edition of Open Tournaments for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), hosted by Maseno University under the KUSF (Western Conference), was a testament to this commitment. The event took place on November 16th and 17th, 2024, and was a resounding success.

The two-day event brought together nearly 100 participants from seven universities: Maseno University, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), Kibabii University, Rongo University, Kisii University, Kabianga University, and Kaimosi Friends University. It celebrated the remarkable talent, resilience, and unifying power of sports among students with disabilities.

Highlighting Achievements: The PWD games showcased a range of activities, including chess, scrabble, goalball, sitting volleyball, table tennis, and athletics. Participants from Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) delivered outstanding performances:

• Gilbert Rono: Secured second place in the 100m race.
• Violet Jepkemboi: Achieved first place in both the 100m and 60m races.

These accomplishments reflect the dedication and hard work of KAFU athletes, supported by the university’s inclusive environment.

Empowering Through Sports: As the event concluded, organizers and stakeholders emphasized the importance of providing further support to PWD students to help them reach their full potential in sports and beyond. Key recommendations included:

• Provision of specialized sports equipment to facilitate participation and enhance performance.
• More opportunities for PWD students to compete at higher levels, fostering a sense of belonging and achievement.
• Increased sensitization programs to encourage more PWD students to join sports, boosting their confidence, improving mental health, and integrating them more deeply into the university community.

A Transformative Experience: The PWD games highlighted the transformative role of sports as a tool for inclusion and empowerment. As preparations for the next edition begin, the focus remains on breaking barriers and creating more opportunities for students with disabilities across Kenya.

KUSF’s outstanding achievements in inclusive sports underscore our dedication to holistic education, making us a beacon of talent and inclusivity in the country. Our participation in the PWD games at Maseno University is a testament to our commitment to empowering all students, regardless of their abilities. ties across Kenya. KAFU’s outstanding achievements in performing arts and inclusive sports underscore its dedication to holistic education, making it a beacon of talent and inclusivity in the country.