Kenya is preparing to host one of Africa’s premier football scouting events, the Nairobi International Cup, from April 7–26, 2025. Organized by FIFA-licensed agency Obas Sports Management, this three-week showcase is set to unearth exceptional football talent across the continent. A key highlight of the event is the involvement of Jambobet, a principal partner that will provide crucial support to participating players through sports merchandise and gear.
The Nairobi International Cup was officially launched at the Uhuru Sports Complex in Nairobi, attracting attention from scouts, coaches, and players worldwide. Confirmed participants include representatives from global footballing nations such as Spain, Brazil, the United States, Germany, and Portugal, offering young African players unprecedented exposure to international opportunities.
Jambobet’s Commitment to Supporting Football Talent
As a key sponsor, Jambobet is playing a vital role in ensuring the success of the event by supplying football kits, balls, training gear, and other sports merchandise to participating players. Peter, speaking on behalf of Mrs. Victoria, Jambobet’s Operations Manager, emphasized the company’s dedication to supporting grassroots sports development:
“Jambobet is not just a betting company; we are deeply committed to giving back to the community. Through the Nairobi International Cup, we aim to empower young athletes with the tools they need to excel in football. This partnership is a testament to our mission to uplift the next generation of talent.”
Mrs. Victoria, in her official statement, added:
“Football has the power to transform lives and bring communities together. By equipping players with the necessary resources, we hope to inspire them to reach their full potential and achieve their dreams on and off the pitch.”
Scouting Venues and Talent Categories
The Nairobi International Cup will feature matches across four youth categories: U13, U15, U17, and U21. These games will take place at Lenana School grounds, a hub for nurturing grassroots talent in Nairobi.
For senior players, alternative scouting venues include Dandora, Ulinzi Stadium, and Don Bosco grounds. These facilities have been chosen to ensure inclusivity and provide scouts with a diverse range of environments to assess players effectively.
Developing Players Holistically
The event is structured to provide more than just a platform for scouting. It begins with an international workshop for coaches, aimed at improving player development strategies. Following this, players will undergo a five-day selection process, where scouts will identify the most promising talents. Those selected will participate in a five-day seminar designed to refine their technical, mental, and physical skills for professional football.
Elisha Winga, Lead Scout Coordinator for East and Central Africa at Obas Sports Management, acknowledged Jambobet’s critical role in making this possible:
“The Nairobi International Cup is not just about talent identification; it’s about preparing players for the professional stage. The support from Jambobet, particularly their provision of top-quality gear, ensures that every participant has the tools needed to shine during the tournament.”
Success Stories from Obas Sports Management
The Nairobi International Cup builds on the success of previous initiatives by Obas Sports Management, which has already connected numerous Kenyan players to international opportunities. Some notable examples include:
- Mwanalima Adam Jereko: Currently playing for Kansas City Women FC in the United States.
- Annedy Kundu: Representing Nees Atromitou in Greece.
- Corazon Aquino: Shining at Simba Queens in Tanzania.
- Diana Wacera: A star for Kenya Police Bullets.
- Francis Kahiro: Competing for KCB FC.
- Naftali Zawadi: Recently signed with Nairobi City Stars FC.
Naftali Zawadi, a 20-year-old midfielder, shared his gratitude for the opportunity to be scouted:
“Elisha discovered me while I was playing for Imara Daima FC and Ligi Ndogo. Thanks to that, I signed my first Kenyan Premier League contract with Nairobi City Stars. This is a significant step toward my dream of playing internationally and representing Kenya at the highest level.”
Global Collaboration for African Talent
The event has drawn interest from scouts and stakeholders from footballing powerhouses like Spain, England, and Germany, underscoring its importance as a platform for showcasing African talent. For young players, this represents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to gain exposure to international scouts and clubs.
Jambobet: A Brand Committed to Community Development
Jambobet’s involvement in the Nairobi International Cup reflects its broader commitment to supporting communities and fostering talent. Speaking on behalf of Mrs. Victoria, Peter reiterated the company’s dedication to making a positive impact:
“Jambobet believes in more than just providing entertainment. We are passionate about creating opportunities for young people to thrive. By partnering with the Nairobi International Cup, we aim to empower aspiring footballers and inspire them to chase their dreams.”
Mrs. Victoria added:
“Our support for this event is about giving back to the community. We understand the challenges faced by young athletes, and we are committed to helping them overcome these obstacles through initiatives like this.”
Kenya’s Role in Shaping Football’s Future
Hosting the Nairobi International Cup cements Kenya’s position as a leader in football development in Africa. The event aligns with the country’s broader ambitions to improve sports infrastructure and provide opportunities for local talent to shine on the global stage.
During the launch, FIFA referees Anthony Ogwayo and Beth Hinga, along with other key stakeholders, emphasized the event’s potential to transform the football landscape:
“This is a significant step forward for Kenyan football. Events like the Nairobi International Cup are crucial for uncovering the next generation of stars and giving them the tools to succeed,” said Ogwayo.
The Nairobi International Cup represents a turning point for African football, offering young players a platform to showcase their talent and connect with global opportunities. With the support of Jambobet, Obas Sports Management, and other stakeholders, the event promises to leave a lasting legacy.
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