On Sunday, 8th February, the Empower Her – Kayayei Programme took a decisive step from vision to reality as women from the Kayayei community came together for their first-ever rugby training session—a landmark moment filled with courage, confidence, and fresh beginnings.
What began weeks earlier at the Agbogbloshie Market as simple conversations sparked by curiosity and connection has now grown into structured participation, learning, and belief. For many of the women present, this session marked their very first encounter with the game of rugby.
Led by Coach Ms. Rafatu Inusah, who is also the President of Ghana RugbyFootballUnion, with support from Anita Tieku and Samira Mensah, the training focused on introducing the fundamentals of rugby within a safe, inclusive, and encouraging environment.
The session covered key basics, including:
Ball handling
Passing and catching techniques
Scoring fundamentals
Team communication and coordination
Beyond the drills and techniques, the training was about something deeper—presence and empowerment. Standing tall, trusting teammates, laughing freely, and discovering inner strength became just as important as learning the rules of the game. Every completed pass and every try scored symbolised more than sporting progress; it represented confidence gained and barriers broken.
The atmosphere was electric. Initial hesitation gave way to smiles, cheers, and constant encouragement. What unfolded was more than a rugby session. It was the birth of a community, united through sport. This historic training marked the official start of a pathway designed to extend far beyond the pitch. Through Empower Her, these women are being introduced to opportunities in rugby not only as players, but also as future coaches, match officials, volunteers, and leaders—clear proof that sport can open doors where society often closes them.
The Empower Her – Kayayei Programme stands as a reminder to women who carry heavy loads every day that they are seen, valued, and capable. Rugby is simply the tool; dignity, inclusion, and opportunity are the true goals.
