Transforming Lives through Football

In June 2009, Kentz Global Oil & Gas Process Systems Ltd donated £5,000 to support the African Medical and Research Foundation (AMREF) football tournament in the rural district of Soroti, Uganda.

The Soroti region of Uganda has been hit by war, cattle raids and insurgency over the past two decades. The people of Katine now have the worst health and living conditions in rural Uganda, and most people live on less than 50p a day. In addition to uniting communities and spreading vital health messages, the tournament also sought to instil a sense of hope and pride amongst villagers. 

The tournament was organised by AMREF and its  partners, including the Federation of Uganda Football Association (FUFA). Forty-eight teams competed in front of thousands of cheering spectators.

Ladies playing football

With a large audience attending the opening ceremony, AMREF had the opportunity to communicate widely the vital messages linked to AMREF’s development aspirations. Two drama groups from Katine performed plays and songs with messages encouraging people to practise good hygiene and sanitation in their homes, and to make use of health centres. Local leaders also spoke at the opening ceremony, and thanked Kentz Global Oil & Gas Process Systems for its generous donation, without which the tournament would not have been possible.

The donation will also be put towards ongoing efforts toempower children and communities affected by conflict, funding social rehabilitation schemes and enabling reintegration through football, health and social development.

As a result of the tournament, the Katine sub-county can boast new sporting facilities and, perhaps more importantly, a revitalised sporting spirit. With these foundations in place, it is anticipated that similarly beneficial events will continue to take place in the area.

The tournament aims to support the objectives of AMREF through the improvement of:

• Playing conditions for the children of Katine through the supply of uniforms, balls and the creation of teams
• Organisational structures of football teams as a way of enhancing confidence in young children
• Technical knowledge of football, through the provision of coaches, referees and governing bodies
• The ability of players in Katine as a means of mobilising children around key health issues, leadership skills, life skills, peace building and conflict resolution
• The active participation of girls in a culturally appropriate way, by fostering respect for girls in sport, showcasing girls playing football
• Post-conflict reconciliation and healing through sport

Local Football Fans