The Kimisagara Football for Hope Centre is set to open its doors early next year, becoming the sixth centre to complete construction. 

20 Centres for 2010 is the official campaign for the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, and is implemented in cooperation with streetfootballworld. The centres are located throughout Africa, and are hosted by local community organisations.

streetfootballworld network member Espérance is the host organisation for the centre in Kimisagara, a densely populated area in the Rwandan capital of Kigali. The facility will serve as a focal point for Espérance’s efforts in using football to promote peace and reconciliation.

A space for dialogue
In a country which continues to struggle with the legacy of genocide, the Football for Hope Centre will provide a space for dialogue, conflict resolution and health awareness. Activities are aimed at disadvantaged young people in the area, and can be broadly divided into three categories: football, education and public health.

Espérance uses football related activities such as Amahoro (Football for Peace) and Football Forum Theatre as a teaching tool to engage young participants about human rights, gender equality and peace building.

Increasing employability
A further focus of the centre’s activities will be to promote academic achievement, with library and classroom facilities available for tutorials and catch-up classes. There will also be computer and language classes, providing participants with valuable skills and increasing their employability.

The centre will also host sporting events designed to sensitise the community on HIV/AIDS awareness and other health topics. A referral system linking participants to local health services is also planned. 

The construction of the centre is complete, with only the football pitch still to be added. Full details of the opening ceremony will be published here as soon as the date is confirmed.