Inclusive sports make debut at Rabi celebrations

Rabi Island's 80th anniversary celebrations marked a historic first as people with disabilities will be participating in sporting activities alongside able-bodied participants for the first time.

The Smash Down Barriers programme brought inclusive sports to the annual Banaban commemoration, opening doors for people of all abilities to engage together.

"This marks the first time the celebration will be truly inclusive," said Harvi Yee, the programme's In-Country Manager for Fiji.

"For the very first time, we are bringing our inclusive sport program to this event where both able-bodied participants and persons with disabilities can participate together."

The Australian Government-funded program, implemented in partnership with the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee and the Fiji National Sports Commission, ran inclusive table tennis demonstrations during the week-long celebrations.

"The activities are designed so that everyone can participate and enjoy sport, helping increase participation opportunities for people with disabilities as well as children," Ms Yee said.

The initiative aims to break down social barriers and create opportunities for people of all abilities to participate through sport.

Smash Down Program members engaging with Banaban children during the 80th anniversary celebrations on Rabi Island.

Photo: Kaneta Naimatau

Ms Yee said the milestone opens pathways for inclusive sports to become part of the annual event starting in 2026.

"This is the pathway to open the door to our inclusive sports to be part of this annual event annually," she said.

The program uses sports as a tool to improve lives of people with disabilities, provide opportunities, and increase healthy living while raising awareness through community engagement.

Feedback: kaneta.naimatau@fijisun.com.fj