More than 100 young men showed up to participate in the Targeted Integrated Sporting and Arts (TISA) activity at Green soccer field in Magutu, Ukunda. The TISA featured various games including soccer, tug of war, filling the bottle and paper race to convey messages.
The activity is a component of the Shared Futures Project by SambaSports Youth Agenda. Shared Futures project is promoting peaceful coexistence among different religions and ethnic groups in Kwale in bid to prevent conflict and violence extremism. TISA provides an opportunity for interfaith dialogue and interaction through sports and talks—all to embrace diversity.
Pastor Shadrack Maithia of Glory Evangelism Ukunda, spoke at the activity encouraging youth you be respectful of each other. Reiterating that with respect, nothing will stop them from unleashing their talents and achieving their goals. He also reminded them that we all belong to one Supreme being and we have no right whatsoever to be divided. Pastor Maithia insisted that oblivious of our religious and ethnic difference, it is through collaboration, love and compassion that we will prosper as a community.
Representing sheikhs at the activity, Sheikh Amani Mwachirume used his influence to paint pictures of hope among the youths sensitizing them on drug abuse. He drew examples from iconic soccer players with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Divok Origi who have excelled marvelously as sober individuals. Sheikh Mwachirume encouraged them to protect their dreams and talents and only in sobriety, they will be able to do that.
The highlight of the activity was one Hamisi Bakari who is differently abled. He was hugely impressed and touched by what SambaSports Youth Agenda is doing for the youths. He emphasized on young individuals to take advantage of opportunities and make the most out of them. He expressed his desires to have participated in the activity but his physical condition barred him from what he called enjoying.
Best teams were rewarded handsomely with trophies as each of the participants took with him home a gift hamper. The gift hampers were packages of toothbrushes and toothpaste, body lotion, bathing soap and underwear for men. They all had the bit for refreshments after a productive day. All in agreement that diversity is a blessing, not a curse.