The community outreach day organized by the Ismail Watenga Foundation concluded with a series of exhilarating charity games in Nakaloke, Watenga’s home village. This part of the day was dedicated to fostering community spirit and promoting sports as a means of unity and development.

The events kicked off with an under-14 football match between Wats Soccer Academy, founded by Ismail Watenga, and Namunsi Soccer Academy. The young players showcased impressive talent and sportsmanship, embodying the foundation’s mission to nurture young athletes. The match was a thrilling display of skill and teamwork, leaving spectators in awe of the potential within these budding footballers.

Following this, there was a match between Highway Senior Secondary School and Mbale Select Ladies teams. This game highlighted the importance of promoting women’s participation in sports, demonstrating that football is a game for everyone, regardless of gender. The players’ enthusiasm and dedication were palpable, inspiring many young girls in the audience to pursue their passion for sports.

The day also featured a corporate match between Nakaloke Corporates and Zam Zam Corporates. This friendly game provided an opportunity for local businesses to come together, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community engagement. The match was filled with moments of laughter and friendly competition, reinforcing the idea that sports can be a powerful tool for building community bonds.

The main event was a highly anticipated friendly match between Friends of Watenga Kampala Select and Friends of Watenga Mbale Select. This match featured notable football stars from the event, including Goalkeeper Derrick Ochan and Ibrahim Juma, who plays in Spain. The game ended in an exciting 2-2 draw, much to the delight of the spectators. The display of talent and teamwork was a fitting end to a day dedicated to giving back and celebrating community spirit.

Nakaloke town council Mayor Mwanika George praised Watenga and the foundation for their continuous contributions to the community and the development of Nakaloke. Additionally, Ritah Namuwenge, the National Coordinator for Emyooga, pledged ongoing support for the foundation. She committed to rallying additional support from her network and major companies for future editions. Namuwenge also donated five balls to the foundation, further supporting its mission.

During the event, Watenga unveiled the students being supported by the foundation, who have been able to attend prestigious schools in the country through football bursaries provided by various institutions. This announcement highlighted the long-term impact of the foundation’s work in empowering youth through education and sports.

The charity games in Nakaloke were not just about football; they were about community, empowerment, and the joy of coming together for a common cause. The Ismail Watenga Foundation’s efforts in organizing these events underscore its commitment to fostering a sense of unity and development through sports and community engagement.