Nigerien Girls “Get Into Rugby”

Girls carrying out a Rugby training drill ( Photo: U.S. Embassy Nimey)
Girls carrying out a Rugby training drill ( Photo: U.S. Embassy Nimey)

On March 8, Ambassador Eunice Reddick attended the “Get into Rugby” event organized by the Nigerien Rugby Federation and 2014 YALI Alumnus Alio Karim Ali in honor of International Women’s Day.  150 girls from Niamey and surrounding cities were invited to spend the morning at the National Stadium learning about the sport from members of Niger’s national men’s rugby team, Les Zébus.  Empowering women and girls is an important strategic objective of the U.S. Mission in Niamey.  This event demonstrated that Sports Diplomacy is an interactive and engaging way to build self-confidence and leadership among young girls.