Kisumu County witnessed a unique fusion of sports and environmental advocacy as the Center for Social Planning and Administrative Development (CESPAD) hosted a two-day football tournament, “Kick for Water,” on December 13-14, 2024. The initiative brought together 30 teams—25 male and 5 female—to promote environmental conservation and the protection of water resources.
According to Ashah Shaaban, CESPAD’s Executive Director, the tournament aimed to harness the power of sports to raise awareness about water pollution and environmental degradation. “Kick for Water” was not just a game but a platform to educate and inspire youth to protect water sources, forests, and river ecosystems.
“Water pollution has become a major threat to the environment. This campaign leverages football to mobilize communities to protect water and natural resources, ensuring the sustainability of these vital ecosystems,” Ashah said during the event at Kasagam Secondary School Grounds in Kisumu.
Youth Take the Lead
The young participants committed to environmental action through the ‘Azimio la Vijana’ Declaration, pledging to protect river ecosystems and forests. Victoria Adwet, a Kisumu Youth WASH Parliament member, emphasized the role of youth in environmental conservation.
“This tournament gave young people not just a chance to play, but also to learn about their responsibility in protecting the environment and water sources. They now have the tools to take the initiative for a cleaner and greener future,” she said.
A Call to Action
Kenya, classified as a water-scarce country, faces increasing threats from water pollution, illegal logging, and climate change. These challenges jeopardize the livelihoods of 70% of Kenyans who rely on agriculture, while waterborne diseases remain a leading cause of child mortality.
“Our water sources are being contaminated, and climate change is depleting these resources. This event is a wake-up call for collective action to safeguard our environment,” Ashah noted.
Grassroots Advocacy
Peter Kochiel, Chairman of the Winner Water Resource Users Association, led a team to a nearby polluted river to highlight the urgency of action. The delegation also visited Lake Victoria, emphasizing the significance of protecting Kenya’s water resources.
CESPAD, which has championed environmental conservation for over two decades, has consistently advocated for climate action, improved water sanitation, and sustainable practices. The “Kick for Water” campaign was bolstered by two months of media outreach to rally communities toward these goals.
As the tournament concluded, the initiative left a lasting impact on the youth, inspiring a new generation to lead environmental conservation efforts and contribute to Kenya’s sustainable future.
