I didn’t know there are such good people in our community who would still be seated here at this late hour, discussing how to empower the youth of Machakos. God bless you, Jitegemee!
– Mr Anthony Makau (Executive Committee Chair, Football Kenya Federation) during a debrief at Jitegemee Children’s Program campus following the Tubonge Soccer Tournament
On Sunday, November 13, 2022, Jitegemee hosted a Tubonge Soccer Tournament at Scott Christian University Stadium, which brought together hundreds of youth from the Machakos community. This mega tournament saw a number of community football teams converge at the stadium to compete in the various matches throughout the day. Jitgemee Football Club, our team, which was comprised of kids from our Vocational, Youth Hub and some staff members, represented the organisation in these matches. Throughout the day, the teams battled each other. In the final game, Katisaa FC beat Katoloni FC and went on to win the trophy for this tournament.
“Tubonge” means “to discuss” and at Jitegemee, Tubonge clinics are part of our sexual and reproductive health program. In addition to playing soccer, the players from the various teams received medical checkups from Bristol Park Hospital, our health partner in hosting this tournament. Bristol Park Hospital has been at the forefront in championing for basic first aid care, especially in sports games, and are committed to training teams on emergency patient care that could save lives on the pitch.
As the games were being played, Jitegemee staff and our peer mentors spoke with the young soccer players to hear about some of the challenges they face, which included depression, drug abuse, and related challenges. Having an opportunity to discuss these challenges with mentors and peers allowed these young people to hear from others facing similar difficulties, and also link to resources in the community where they can find support.
The tournament was attended and supported by the Football Kenya Federation. Mr. Anthony Makau, Chair of the FKF Executive Committee was was accompanied by Bobby Festus who is the FKF representative in Machakos. We are grateful for their support and attendance.
In the spirit of ‘harambee,’ all the partners involved with this event are committed to doing more for youth in Machakos. A big Thank You, Asanteni Sana to Bristol Park Hospital and the Football Kenya Federation. We look forward to the next collaboration!
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