NBA Africa, AFD host inclusive Jr. NBA clinic in Nairobi

The clinic aimed to showcase how sports, particularly basketball, promote social inclusion, including for children with disabilities. The event was attended by notable figures such as French Ambassador to Kenya Arnauld Suquet, AFD Kenya Country Director Anne-Gaël Chapuis, NBA Kenya Senior Director and Country Operations Lead Michael Finley, and area Member of Parliament John Kiarie.

Speaking on the importance of inspiring the next generation of basketball players, Finley reaffirmed the partnership between NBA Africa and AFD, emphasizing their commitment to making the sport accessible to as many young Kenyans as possible.

"At the end of the day, our goal is to create opportunities for as many young Kenyans as possible to play the game, regardless of their circumstances. The extent to which we can reach them will determine our success," Finley said.

Currently, the program operates in 50 schools and has benefited over 7,000 students through weekly basketball sessions. Moving forward, the initiative aims to expand its reach, particularly to schools that cater to children with disabilities.

AFD Kenya Country Director Anne-Gaël Chapuis reaffirmed the French government’s commitment to financing the program and ensuring its continued expansion across Africa.

"We want to introduce a new component specifically for children with disabilities. We see this as a crucial part of the program, one that fosters inclusivity, teaches life skills, builds confidence, and, in the long run, helps children succeed in life. We are very pleased to present this initiative today," Chapuis said.

Basketball Experience is a youth development program that integrates weekly basketball and life skills sessions across 50 schools in Nairobi, educating Kenyan youth on the importance of physical and mental well-being. Since July last year, the program has reached over 8,000 boys and girls through basketball clinics and school assemblies, supported by a team of 20 coaches (11 women and 9 men) dedicated to training young players in both basketball and essential life skills.

Area MP John Kiarie praised the initiative for its positive impact on his constituency, which, he noted, has a high number of individuals with disabilities.