Every year, the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace reminds us that sport is more than just a game. throughout the world, sport has the power to bring people together, build connection, and create real change in communities.

At DBA Africa, we see this every day in our work across Kenya and Uganda. On make-shift Rugby pitches, abandoned Football fields, and Hockey courts, sport is shaping a new future for young people, one built on respect, teamwork, and unity.

Sport is a Powerful Tool for Youth Education & Peace

In many communities, grassroots sports are the first place a young boy or girl learns about respect, equality, and working with others. This is where life skills begin, in a team huddle, at training, or during a race.

DBA Africa’s youth sports programmes go beyond just playing the game. Our coaches are trained to use sport to teach important values like discipline, fairness, gender inclusion, and how to handle challenges without violence.

Sport creates safe spaces where children from different backgrounds come together, not as opponents, but often as teammates. In places where differences often divide communities, grassroots sports can create a connection.

Our Tournaments Are About More Than Winning 

From rugby to football and lacrosse, our tournaments bring together hundreds of young athletes from different regions and cultures.

These events offer far more than trophies, they create moments of friendship, learning, and pride. Young players share meals, stories, and memories. They return home not only as better athletes but as more confident leaders in their schools and communities.

Some of our favourite tournaments include:

• Kingsley’s Cup: A fun rugby festival for U13 boys that brings teams from all walks of life onto one pitch.
• Futures Cup: A regional rugby tournament connecting the best young players from across Kenya and Uganda.
• Dream Team Tour Uganda 2025: A cross-border rugby experience where sport becomes a bridge between nations.

Sport Opens Doors for Youth Development 

Grassroots sports are changing lives far beyond the track and field. Many of our young athletes’ have gained access to scholarships, travel opportunities, and leadership training through sport.

This is youth education in action, learning teamwork, resilience, and respect alongside the chance to play and compete. It’s about giving every child, no matter where they come from, the chance to dream bigger.

DBA Africa’s Vision: Peace Through Sport 

For us at DBA Africa, sports development is not just about building better athletes. It’s about building better communities. Grassroots sports programmes provide safe spaces where all young people, no matter their background, gender, or beliefs, can learn, grow, and belong. Through youth sports programmes, children are building life skills that go far beyond the field, helping prepare them for school, work, and life. And most importantly, sport is opening doors to education, opportunity, and a more peaceful future