Experts have underlined the transformative potential of sports in fighting the increasing negative influences affecting the youth of Uganda today.
The initiative taken by Destiny Soccer Academy to engage over one hundred underprivileged children in Northern Uganda through holiday soccer camping in Lira City is being seen as a significant step in addressing this issue.
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Emmanuel Obong, the project officer at Destiny Project Uganda, emphasized that many young people in Uganda often turn to undesirable activities due to a lack of constructive engagement opportunities. He believes that sports can play a pivotal role in redirecting their energies toward more productive pursuits.
The holiday soccer camp, organized by Destiny Soccer Academy, seeks to contribute to the development of sports in Northern Uganda, a region that endured a distressing two-decade-long war. As concerns grow over the rising unemployment rate among the country’s youth, experts in the field of football see the sport as a compelling remedy.
Morrise Otidi, the CEO of Destiny Soccer Academy in Lira City, stressed that the professionalization of sports is crucial in unlocking its potential.
He stated, “Close to 150 children have been camped at Ireda Primary School, where they have received life skill sessions covering different topics such as respect, discipline, teamwork, team spirit, and essential football skills. This holistic approach connects football with values that directly benefit children and contribute positively to society. When children play, the world wins.”
During the two decades of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) war in Northern Uganda, communities were forcibly displaced into camps, and sports struggled to flourish amidst the insurgencies. Currently, Destiny Soccer Academy is enrolling talented underprivileged boys from the region for intensive holiday coaching in football.
Emmanuel Obong, the project officer at Destiny Project Uganda, highlighted the significance of this initiative for disadvantaged youth. He stated, “These are youth from underprivileged backgrounds, and we believe that through this project, we can protect them from the streets, drugs, and other activities that could negatively impact their lives.”
In July of this year, the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA) unveiled a 7-year football plan aimed at promoting and professionalizing sports at all levels, from grassroots to the elite. Morrise Otidi proudly noted that their nine years of working with kids have seen many emerging talents from the region, including the young star Allan Okello.
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In December, the participants of the camp will have the opportunity to undergo trials at different schools and academies, offering them a pathway to further their football careers. This initiative is part of the Destiny Project Uganda, supported by Blue Mountain and Gloford Uganda, all dedicated to transforming lives through football.
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