NBA Africa and Safaricom launch M-PESA Jr. NBA program to empower East African Youth
The landscape of youth development in East Africa is evolving as NBA Africa and Safaricom join forces to launch the M-PESA Jr. NBA program—the most expansive youth development initiative in the region to date. This innovative program is set to reach over 10,000 boys and girls across major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, Eldoret, and Kisumu.
A Dual Focus on Basketball and Financial Literacy
In a bid to nurture both athletic and life skills, the program integrates comprehensive basketball development with financial literacy workshops. The inaugural year kicked off with a clinic for more than 100 local coaches at SABIS International School in Nairobi, setting the tone for what promises to be a transformative journey for East African youth.
The program features four regional tournaments for young athletes aged 13-16, scheduled as follows:
- Nairobi: February 22-23
- Mombasa: March 8-9
- Eldoret: March 15-16
- Kisumu: March 22-23
In each city, 20 boys’ and 20 girls’ teams will engage in skills development sessions and competitive games. The best performers will be selected to form elite teams that will compete in a round-robin format, with the top 16 players from each city earning an invitation to an exclusive top 100 camp at Aga Khan Academy in Mombasa in April.
Empowering Through Sports and Financial Education
Beyond basketball, the program is set to make a significant impact through financial literacy workshops hosted by M-PESA, Safaricom’s innovative mobile payment platform. These workshops aim to equip young athletes with essential financial management skills, ensuring that they build a strong foundation for their future beyond sports.
“This program is a key milestone in making basketball more accessible to Kenyan youth,” said Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa. “We are excited to extend our efforts to develop not only athletic talent but also life skills that will empower our next generation.”
Safaricom’s CEO, Dr. Peter Ndegwa, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Our collaboration with NBA Africa reflects our commitment to youth empowerment. As M-PESA celebrates its 18th anniversary, we are proud to invest in programs that build character, nurture potential, and pave the way for long-term success both on the court and in life.”
Creating a Lasting Impact on the Community
The M-PESA Jr. NBA program is more than just a sports initiative—it’s a holistic approach to youth development. By combining basketball training with financial education, the program aims to create well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of tomorrow. With Safaricom and NBA Africa’s joint commitment, the program sets the stage for significant growth in East Africa’s sports and education sectors, creating opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills and seize future opportunities.
As the program unfolds across the region, local communities are expected to witness not only an improvement in basketball skills but also a broader impact on financial literacy and youth empowerment. This initiative stands as a testament to the power of sports in shaping a better future and the importance of equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed in every aspect of life.
