Who We Are

250+ Youth Reached • 3 Communities

Our Story

From a Small Group to a Growing Movement

Refugee Basketball Academy (RBA) is a youth-led sports and social development organization based in Kampala, Uganda. Founded in 2024 by young Congolese refugees, RBA uses basketball as a powerful tool for empowerment, leadership development, education, mental well-being, and social inclusion.

What started with a small group of around 10 young players has grown into a community-driven movement that has reached more than 250 children and youth through basketball training, mentorship, leadership programs, camps, and community engagement activities.

Youth-Led Leadership

Founded by young refugees who understand the challenges firsthand and are committed to creating change.

Inclusive & Safe Spaces

We create welcoming environments where every young person feels valued, respected, and supported.

Today, RBA is committed to creating opportunities for refugee and marginalized youth, helping them build confidence, develop life skills, and become leaders within their communities.
In 2026, RBA achieved official legal registration in Uganda and continues to grow as a youth-led organization.

Read Our Full Story

The Story of a Coach and a Player

Two Refugees, One Vision: Creating Opportunities Through Sport

Stephane Kulimushi

Founder & CEO

Young Leader for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) • Youth Leader for the Global Partnership for Education (GPE) • Member of the Refugee Education Council (REC)

As a young player, basketball became a source of hope, belonging, and personal growth.
He experienced firsthand how sport can create opportunities, strengthen resilience, and help young people believe in their potential.

Jonathan Mbinga

Co-Founder & Head Coach

A dedicated coach who saw how sport could build discipline, confidence, teamwork, and leadership.

For Jonathan, basketball became a platform to mentor, guide, and inspire young people.
Through years of training, learning, and serving communities, he shared a common vision with Stephane.

Our Shared Vision

A future where refugee youth are not defined by their circumstances, but empowered by their talents, leadership, and potential.

In 2024, they decided to turn that vision into action.
Starting with only 10 young players in Kampala, they began organizing regular basketball training sessions, mentorship activities, and community engagement programs.

💪 Because talent is everywhere, but opportunity is not. Explore Our Programs

Founded 2024 • 250+ Youth Reached

The Challenge We Address

Millions have talent. Few have access to real opportunities.

As refugees living in Uganda, both Stephane and Jonathan experienced many of the challenges faced by displaced young people: limited opportunities, uncertainty about the future, social exclusion, and the daily struggle to build a better life.