The Commission recognizes the catalytic role sports play in achieving peace and social development in Kenya. In partnership with Polycom Development Project, NCIC held a two-day tournament on 18th and 19th May, using volleyball to unite women from various informal settlements within Nairobi.
Dubbed “sports for peace and reconciliation in the informal settlements,” the tournament attracted participants from Kibera, Mathare, Kawangware, Kiambiu and Mukuru informal settlements. All the participants had a safe space within the playground to reconcile, heal and embrace physical wellness despite social, political and cultural differences. The two-day event was graced by Nairobi County Woman Representative, Esther Passaris, who encouraged all the players to embrace sports as a reconciliatory tool.
Women from the informal settlements of Nairobi play volleyball to promote healing and reconciliation in Kibera on 19th May, 2018.
“Sports have the power to positively impact social inclusion and dialogue for all Kenyans, we must unite and harness this power for our own good,” stated Ms.Esther.
The playground proved to be an effective medium to strengthen social ties and promote peace since diverse players communicated with one another without fear of intimidation. Teams upheld a positive environment through communication, hence promoting a strong sense of community. Sports have the ability to cross all barriers and potentially become a common denominator among diverse communities.
This inturn initiates a culture of non-violence and promotes cohesiveness among residents of the Kenyan informal settlements. The commission applauds all the participating teams and congratulates the winners.
