How Football Is Helping Dela Sport Organisation Transform Lives in Kiambu
A community-based organization in Thika is using football as a tool to keep young people away from crime and negative influences while creating opportunities for talent development and social integration.
Dela Organisation, founded by youth advocate Patrick Dela, is set to host its third football tournament on June 21 at Del Monte Local 20 in Thika as part of its broader mission to empower young people and strengthen communities through sports.
The tournament, which will feature 11 teams, is expected to bring together hundreds of young people from different parts of the region in an initiative aimed at promoting positive engagement and responsible citizenship.
According to Dela, the organization believes that sports can play a critical role in addressing social challenges affecting young people, including crime, drug abuse and unemployment.
"Our goal is to bring young people together, keep them away from crime and negative influences, and educate them on their responsibilities in society," he said.
One of the unique features of this year's competition is the inclusion of a mixed-gender team made up of both boys and girls. Dela said the move reflects the organization's commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities in sports.
The tournament builds on the success of previous editions, including last year's event held at Ananas Mall in Thika, which attracted more than 80 teams, among them 16 university teams and several football academies.
Beyond providing entertainment, the competition will also serve as a platform for identifying and nurturing talent. Football scouts and coaches are expected to attend the event to spot promising players and connect them with opportunities for advancement in the sport.
"We are inviting talent scouts and coaches from FKF to scout for promising talent," Dela said.
Outstanding performers will be recognized through various awards, including Champions, Runners-Up, Best Player, Best Striker and Top Scorer. Organizers have also announced that all participating teams will receive recognition for their involvement, a departure from previous editions.
Dela emphasized that the initiative is strictly non-political and focused entirely on community development and youth empowerment.
"This is not about politics. It is about creating opportunities for young people, strengthening communities and giving youth a sense of purpose," he said.
He also appealed to sponsors, partners and well-wishers to support the initiative, noting that additional funding would help expand its impact and reach more young people.
The organization's efforts extend beyond football. Through Dream Academy, an institution operating under Dela's leadership, five students are expected to travel to Germany later this year for educational and development opportunities, highlighting the organization's commitment to creating pathways for youth success.
Founded in 2019, Dela Organisation, alongside Dela Sports and Dela Media, has continued to champion programs aimed at youth empowerment, talent development and community engagement, using sports as a catalyst for social change and transformation.