Kenyatta University (KU) has signed a strategic partnership with the Football Foundation for Africa (FFA), a collaboration which seeks to harness the power of football as a catalyst for social and economic transformation.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organisations outlines a comprehensive framework for collaboration in four critical areas of academic partnerships, research and innovation, community outreach, and utility partnerships.
These initiatives are aimed at fostering educational excellence, ground-breaking research, and meaningful community engagement, ensuring both organisations contribute to Africa’s socio-economic development.
Speaking on the partnership, Brian Wesaala, Founder and CEO of The Football Foundation for Africa, stated, “This collaboration with Kenyatta University is monumental for The Football Foundation for Africa. Grounding our work on robust academic frameworks and accessing cutting-edge research and technology will accelerate our mission to leverage football for Africa’s social and economic development. We are excited to take this journey with one of Africa’s leading universities,”.
Prof Caroline Lang’at Thoruwa, KU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Outreach) office, added, “At Kenyatta University, we believe in the transformative power of education and sports. This partnership with The Football Foundation for Africa aligns with our vision of contributing to Africa’s sustainable development through knowledge and innovation. As we look ahead to AFCON 2027, this partnership will position us to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of football in Africa.”
She explained that some of the key areas of the partnership include academics where the collaboration will provide opportunities for teaching, supervision, and staff and student exchanges, offering scholarships, hosting international seminars and conferences and facilitating joint degrees.
“This will enrich academic programs for both KU students and FFA beneficiaries, broadening access to world-class educational opportunities within and outside Africa,” she said.
On matters research and innovation, the two institutions will work together on grant proposal writing, conducting cutting-edge research, and innovating in areas crucial to football and sports development. The partnership will focus on commercialising research outputs supporting knowledge development that will advance academia and the football industry.
Wesaala highlighted that access to KU’s unique technology, specialised equipment, and state-of-the-art facilities will significantly enhance FFA’s capacity to deliver impactful programs saying that the utility partnerships will facilitate education, research and development, product development, and entrepreneurship, especially in sports innovation and business.
“This strategic partnership is a game-changer for both organisations, notably as Kenyatta University is recognised as a pioneer in African sports education, with alums working across the continent and globally, KU’s role as a knowledge partner at the upcoming Africa Football Business Summit 2024 further cements its leadership in the field,” said Wesaala.
Wesaala said that the collaboration positions Kenyatta University and FFA as crucial stakeholders ahead of the highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations 2027, which Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania will co-host.
“The partnership will ensure that both institutions are well-positioned to contribute to and benefit from this landmark event, focusing on sustainable sports development in East Africa,” said Wesaala.
According to Wesaala, the Football Foundation for Africa is committed to using football as a platform for social and economic development across the continent. The Foundation works with stakeholders across the football, education, and business sectors to address critical socio-economic challenges and create opportunities for young people.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
