Kisumu youth to show their skills in Child Protection football match

Kisumu's youth are poised for a transformative experience as Ace Africa Kenya, in collaboration with local partners and government entities, hosts the U17 Child Protection football match finals on Wednesday, at Kirembe Grounds.

This event, graced by notable dignitaries including the Kisumu West Deputy County Commissioner, is more than just a sporting competition.

It's a beacon of hope and positive change in a region burdened by high HIV/AIDS prevalence, adolescent pregnancies, sexual and gender-based violence, and a lack of access to organized sports and coaching for children.

Ace Africa Kenya, a prominent NGO working in various counties, is dedicated to fostering health, wellbeing, and development in communities, focusing on vulnerable and marginalized children.

The Kisumu project specifically aims to address these challenges by integrating life skills and rights education through sports. This innovative approach is not only expected to enhance children's sporting talents but also to empower them with crucial life skills like teamwork, communication, and tolerance, all while boosting their health, self-esteem, and academic performance.

Significantly, the project aims to increase community awareness and participation in local child protection services. By establishing stronger reporting systems, cases of child abuse can be more effectively identified, referred, and resolved.

The involvement of girls in the program is particularly impactful, challenging stereotypes and promoting gender equality in sports and education.

The broader goal of this initiative is to contribute to the reduction of all forms of abuse among children in Kisumu West Sub County.

By scaling up education on life skills, child rights, and enhancing access to child protection services and football opportunities, the project hopes to create a safer, more nurturing environment for the region's vulnerable children.

This event marks a significant step in the journey towards achieving these objectives, with the potential to leave a lasting impact on the lives of children and the broader community in Kisumu.