A Welsh couple from Newport and a former Aberystwyth University student have made a significant impact on the grassroots rugby scene in Rwanda. The Friends of Rwanda Rugby is a charity founded by Emma Rees in 2007, aiming to introduce the joys of rugby to boys and girls across Rwanda. The charity’s goal is to promote reconciliation, health, and wellbeing through the sport, using rugby to build trust, friendships, and shared experiences.
Mary Watkins and her husband Glyn, both teachers from Newport, volunteered with Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) in Rwanda in 2013. While there, they were approached by a school principal who asked Glyn to coach a rugby team. They started with basic drills and touch rugby, and their involvement with the charity grew from there.
Over the years, the Watkins couple have funded additional rugby development officers in Rwanda, helping the charity expand its reach to over 200 schools and communities. They have fundraised, collected kits, and organised tours to support rugby development in the region. Their dedication has led to significant transformations in the lives of many individuals involved in the sport.
The charity’s impact goes beyond just teaching rugby skills. It has provided opportunities for personal growth and development, with stories of individuals overcoming challenges and excelling in rugby. One former student who was once ostracised has now become a chief administrator for the Rwandan rugby federation, showing the profound impact of the charity’s work.
Volunteers like former professional rugby player Cliff Street have highlighted the life-changing experiences they’ve had with the Friends of Rwanda Rugby. The charity not only benefits Rwandan children but also profoundly impacts all those involved in the journey. The introduction of new rugby variations like T1 Rugby aims to make the sport accessible to individuals of all abilities and ages.
Photographer Glenn Edwards has documented the charity’s work in his book “Rugby to Rwanda”, capturing the joy, enthusiasm, and growth witnessed during the rugby tours in Rwanda. The charity continues to seek coaches, teachers, and rugby enthusiasts to join them on future trips to Rwanda and contribute to the development of rugby in the region.
The Friends of Rwanda Rugby’s ultimate goal is to empower Rwandans to sustain grassroots rugby initiatives independently. The impact of the charity extends beyond the sport itself, fostering a sense of community, growth, and empowerment among participants. As they work towards self-sustainability, the charity remains committed to its mission of using rugby to inspire positive change and create lasting connections.