Earlier this month, Cricket Without Boundaries (CWB) concluded a remarkable journey to Kumi, Uganda, leaving an indelible mark on the local community. Their mission? To spread the joy of cricket and its transformative potential, a goal they achieved with resounding success.
During their visit, CWB focused on empowering 45 teachers, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively coach cricket. This initiative aimed to ensure the sustained growth of the sport in the Teso region.
A staggering 1800 children actively participated in CWB’s coaching sessions, where they not only learned the intricacies of cricket but also imbibed its core values such as teamwork and sportsmanship.
The impact of CWB’s visit extended to 19 schools in Kumi, igniting a contagious enthusiasm for cricket among the young students and fostering a newfound love for the game.
However, it’s essential to recognize the collaborative effort between CWB and Keere Cricket Academy, who previously established partnerships with these schools and were the pioneers in introducing cricket to Kumi. Working together, CWB and Keere Cricket Academy magnified the impact of cricket in the region, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
Arnold Tembo, founder of Keere Cricket Academy, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the teamwork between their academy and CWB in conducting cricket camps in Kumi. He stressed the profound effect of their partnership, noting how it has sparked positive changes throughout the community. Tembo emphasized that beyond simply introducing cricket to new groups, their collaboration has expanded the sport’s reach and positively impacted individuals in the region.
“We also extended invitations to high school games teachers to join our sports teachers’ training sessions, as we’re expanding our cricket program to secondary schools where we’ll be introducing hard ball cricket. In the upcoming enrollment for hard ball cricket, we anticipate having even more high school teachers involved in the process,” Tembo said, further explaining that by extending cricket programs to high schools alongside primary schools, they aim to enhance overall capacity within Kumi.
Keere Cricket Academy has a history of hosting international visitors, as demonstrated by a previous visit from a coach representing South Africa’s Taps Cricket Academy in December of last year. This marked Taps Cricket Academy’s inaugural visit to Uganda. Similarly, CWB, with prior engagements in Uganda, made a return visit to the country with Kumi being one of their destinations.
“In my view, there’s a common thread between both visits as they brought us fresh ideas. However, the distinction lies in the fact that CWB arrived with a larger team and had a broader impact,” remarked Tembo. He further noted that CWB was impressed by the enthusiastic turnout and eagerness displayed by the participants. “The passion for cricket in Kumi was palpable, despite any limitations. There’s a genuine hunger for cricket here,” Tembo concluded.
Tembo believes cricket can make a big difference in Kumi. He thinks it’s more than just a game—it’s a way to keep kids active, help them learn new skills, and teach important stuff like teamwork and discipline. He also thinks cricket can help create jobs and businesses in Kumi and make the community stronger. Tembo dreams of a future where cricket brings people together and helps everyone in Kumi reach their goals.
Tembo shared the difficulties they’re encountering in Kumi as they work on developing cricket in the area. He talked about the shortage of resources and how they need more help to keep their projects going. Despite these obstacles, he expressed heartfelt appreciation for the volunteer coaches who have played a vital role in making progress happen despite the limitations they face. Tembo also gave credit to the Uganda Cricket Academy and various organizations, both local and international, for their support. He emphasized how these donations have been essential in keeping their programs up and running, allowing them to make a real difference in the community. Tembo stressed the importance of ongoing teamwork and support to tackle challenges and keep pushing forward with cricket development in Kumi.
The academy is gearing up for an eventful year ahead with some exciting plans in store. They’re kicking off with the Go Green Campaign, followed by a Mini Cricket tournament in Kumi. And get this – they’re also launching hardball cricket, a big step forward for the academy. Plus, they’re eagerly awaiting the return of Taps Cricket Academy next month, hoping to build on their partnership even more. And let’s not forget about the second edition of the Keere Cricket Festival, which they’re determined to make an annual tradition. These initiatives really show their dedication to growing cricket and engaging the community right here in Kumi.
However, the cricketing journey didn’t end at the boundary! Following their coaching sessions with 9 schools and the engagement of 1800 children, CWB treated themselves to a rejuvenating excursion to the breathtaking Sipi Falls.
Refreshed by the natural splendor of Uganda, they embarked on their next destination: Lugazi. They also had sessions in Jinja.
CWB’s unwavering commitment to utilizing cricket as a tool for development is undeniably inspiring. Their visit to Kumi has undoubtedly left an indelible impression, fostering a deep-seated passion for the sport while empowering both educators and youngsters alike.
The partnership between CWB and Keere Cricket Academy exemplifies the power of collaboration in driving community development through sports. Together, they have not only introduced cricket to Kumi but have also empowered teachers and inspired young minds, leaving a lasting legacy of passion and opportunity.
