Afghanistan: A rehabilitation pathway to mobility and social inclusion

The ICRC’s Physical Rehabilitation Programme manages four gymnasiums and two open courts across the country where athletes with disability can practice sports, mainly wheelchair basketball, futsal and volleyball.  Sport has proved to be the perfect combination of physical rehabilitation and social inclusion.  Together with fun, it boosts the physical well-being of the players, their self-esteem and self-confidence.

Mohammadullah Ahmadi’s journey from bomb victim to captain of his national team

At just 14 years old, Mohammadullah Ahmadi was left paralyzed from the waist down by a bomb explosion outside his father’s shop in Kabul. He began his recovery with the help of the ICRC Physical Rehabilitation Centre, where he received not only physical care but also the hope and tools to rebuild his life.

In 2010, wheelchair basketball became his new passion. He thrived as a player and coach, eventually becoming the captain of Afghanistan’s National Wheelchair Basketball Team. He proudly represented his country in international competitions in Italy, China, Lebanon, Indonesia, and Thailand, as well as in numerous national events.

Today, 46-year-old Mohammadullah stands as an example of dedication and the power of sport. His story is a powerful reminder that with courage, support, and hard work, even the toughest challenges can be overcome. “I am happy with my life now,” he shared. 

Exposure to sports allows people with disabilities to experience their residual capacity and how through practice this capacity can increase. This restores hope and triggers the will to rebuild their life.