As part of efforts to celebrate the success and community impact of the Protecting Our Community Initiative (POCI), Hope for Village Child Foundation, in collaboration with Neem Foundation and Karuna Center for Peacebuilding, organized a two-day novelty football match.
The event, held on the 30th of September and 1st of October 2024, featured teams from various communities where the POCI project was implemented, symbolizing peace and unity through sports.
The first match took place in Kajuru, Kaduna State, between Kufana Community and Kasuwan Magani Community. Despite Kufana Community’s early lead, Kasuwan Magani Community fought back, ending the game in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
Attendees were treated to a cultural display by the Gbagyi tribe and peace talks that emphasized the importance of unity. Community leaders, dignitaries, and guests also shared goodwill messages, highlighting the significance of peace in maintaining the gains of the POCI project.
The second day’s match, held at the Maraban Rido community football field, saw Sabo Community and Kujama Community play to a goalless draw. Like the first day, the event was filled with music, cultural presentations, and messages of peace, underscored by the branded shirts and caps worn by the participants.
Both events underscored the power of sports to foster dialogue, promote unity, and maintain peace in communities.
