By Omulo Okoth
Fifa’s Football for Hope Centre in Nairobi’s Komarock was launched Saturday with renewed calls by the world governing body and officials to nurture the youth’s talent.
Fifa’s Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, Federico Addiechi, and Streetfootballworld Project Manager Jan Coetzee, were joined by Kenya’s football legend Joe Kadenge and officials from Football Kenya Limited and Mathare Youth Sports association (MYSA) in the launch, the second in Africa after Khayelitsha Football for Hope Centre in Cape Town, South Africa.
"The 2010 World Cup is over, but the legacy, such as what we are seeing here today, it has left in the continent is testament to the effort Fifa is making towards developing football in Africa," said Addiechi.
He thanked MYSA for pioneering such projects by giving the youth hope for the past 25 years.
"Football is a catalyst for social change and it provides opportunities for the youth to live better life. Our commitment is for these centres to deliver services to the youth and ensure continued supply of talent into the future," he said.
Coetzee said MYSA and Streetfootballworld have a long history.
"As one of the most experienced and influential organisations in the field of development through football, MYSA has contributed greatly to the Streetfootballworld network through willingness to share ideas and experiences with others who share the vision of creating a better world through the power of football," said the South African.
The centre was abuzz with activity as guests from Komarock area, Mathare slums and further afield, knowing it was going to be another fun-filled day at the fast-developing centre, started streaming in early.
Guests watched a five-a-side football match between Kariobangi and Kayole MYSA centres, which ended 1-0 in favour of the latter.
Former KPL winners, Mathare United FC, who are flagship of the project, and age-group teams all attended.
Kadenge urged the youth to shun anti-social activities and be disciplined to succeed in the sport. Acting Football Kenya Secretary General Patrick Naggi paid glowing tribute to Fifa for helping Kenya in running and funding its projects.
He said the future of global football, Kenya included, was in the hands of the youth, citing two Kenyan professionals, Dennis Oliech of French Ligue 1 side Auxerre and Italian Serie A side Inter Milan’s Macdonald Mariga as products of teeming talent among the youth.
Also present was KPL Chief Executive Officer, Jack Oguda.
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