The Aliguma Foundation has received a major boost from UNHCR (United Nations High Commission for Refugees) ahead of its Slums Football Tournament.
UNHCR who supported the same course last year have donated to the foundation 30 balls and 16 full sets of jerseys worth Uganda Sh.12M ahead of the fourth edition of the annual tournament that’s always played at Acholi Quarters in Banda.
This development happened on Friday at the UNHCR offices in Kololo, Kampala but the date for the tournament kick-off hasn’t been revealed yet for it’s yet to be approved by FUFA.
“I was impressed by the spirit and energy in the Slum Soccer competition last year,” Joel Boutroue, Country Representative UNHCR told the media in Kololo.
“I am glad to be helping the foundation to enable the event take place. I wish you good luck and and I’ll be present in the final stages of the event,” Boutroue added.
UNHCR primarily deals with refugees but this gesture according to Boutroue is a token of their solidarity to the underprivileged people in the ghettos.
The slums tournament is organized by Aliguma Foundation which was initiated by former Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA) president Rita Aliguma, also the Executive director of Rismiles Public Relations and Events Management Company.
“I am really excited about this and thanks to UNHCR for supporting the Slum Soccer Tournament,” Aliguma said.
“With this support, we believe the sky is the limit for the foundation. We want to do more in impacting the lives of Ugandans through sport.”
Aliguma further said that 26 teams have so far registered for the tournament that has been one of the most looked out for football competitions by slum people and football faithful at large.
Luigi slum are the defending champions after overcoming Kawenja 5-4 in post-match penalties after a two all draw in normal time last year.
However, Aliguma Foundation was last month selected among the 55 projects that will be receiving funds from UEFA Foundation for Children.