Rockey Africa Foundation has joined forces with Crossover Basketball Ambassadors (CBA), a Kenyan non-profit Christian organization. This collaboration aims to foster positive change through sports and mentorship, culminating in a successful basketball tournament held on August 24, 2024, at Gatina Primary Grounds in Kawangware.
The tournament, sponsored by Rockey Africa Foundation with a generous contribution of Sh. 150,000, witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 120 children and youths, ranging from as young as 11 years old. This event, a key component of a broader mission to uplift the community, showcased not only the athletic prowess of the young participants but also highlighted the role of sports in mitigating crime and social deviance.
The competition was divided into four categories: Under 11, Under 13, Under 15 (both Boys and Girls), and Seniors. The matches were fiercely contested, with each team displaying remarkable skill and determination. In the Under 11 category, Team Shaddy emerged victorious over Team Gitau with a commanding 4-0 win. However, Team Gitau made a strong comeback in the Under 13 category, defeating Team Shaddy 24-14.
The Under 15 Girls’ match saw Team Gitau dominate with a score of 45-29 against Team Shaddy, while in the Under 15 Boys’ category, Team Gitau secured a 40-19 win. Despite the losses in earlier categories, Team Shaddy ended the day on a high note by triumphing over Team Gitau in the Senior Division with a decisive 94-64 victory.
Danniel Ochieng Omondi, coach at CBA, expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm about the event. “Today marks the conclusion of our week-long camp at Gatina Primary, where we have been instilling moral values through Bible studies and basketball. Our program, initiated last year, aims to combat crime and social issues such as drug abuse in the slums. The overwhelming support from the community and the participation of over 120 kids and youths today is a testament to the success of our initiative. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Rockey Africa Foundation for their invaluable support.”
Crossover Basketball Ambassadors, founded in 2023, is dedicated to transforming lives in the slums by integrating sports, Bible study, and community service. Since its inception, the organization has seen significant growth, with 185 children currently enrolled in their basketball program adjacent to Gatina Primary School. Their mission is to empower youth to become positive role models in their communities, breaking the cycle of crime and deviance that often affects underserved areas.
Robert Kamau Wachira, CEO of Rockey Africa, underscored the importance of the partnership. “At Rockey Africa, we believe in the power of community and the transformative impact sports can have on young lives. By supporting Crossover Basketball Ambassadors, we are investing in a future where the youth of Kawangware can overcome environmental challenges and contribute to a safer, brighter community.”
The partnership between Rockey Africa Foundation and CBA extends beyond a single event. CBA’s programs include immersive basketball camps that combine training with Bible study and regular tournaments during school holidays. Additionally, the organization conducts Bible study sessions and community service initiatives such as clean-ups and tree planting. These efforts are designed to instill a sense of responsibility, discipline, and faith among the youth.
As CBA continues to make strides in reducing crime and promoting positive behavior in Kawangware, collaborations like the one with Rockey Africa Foundation play a crucial role. This partnership exemplifies how community-driven initiatives can create lasting change, equipping young people with the tools they need to lead purposeful and constructive lives.
