Building Basketball Courts To Unlock Talent In Nairobi’s Informal Communities

• Communications Team
• July 13, 2023
• JJF News, Press Release
• 0 Comments

Nairobi’s informal settlements are home to countless talented young  individuals, waiting for an opportunity to showcase their abilities and pursue their dreams. In these marginalized areas, where resources are scarce and opportunities limited, the construction of basketball courts has proven to be a powerful catalyst for talent development and community transformation. Jonathan Jackson Foundation (JJF), through its “Bakee Mtaani” program, choose to lead in fostering a sense of community and promoting physical activity by constructing basketball courts in these underserved neighborhoods.

Since its inception, JJF has successfully built four basketball courts in Nairobi’s informal settlements, namely Gatina, HGM, BP, and Humama. These safe and accessible public spaces have become hubs of activity, providing a platform for talented individuals like John Musosi from Kayole to practice and sharpen their skills. Musosi, a passionate young basketball player, dreams of making it to the NBA, the highest level of professional basketball. He aspires to use his success to give back to his community, just as the Jonathan Jackson Foundation has done.

Reflecting on the impact of the Humama basketball court, built under the “Bakee Mtaani” program in Kayole, Musosi shared his aspirations, saying,

 “My dream as a basketball player is to play in the NBA, the highest level of professional basketball. If I am able to make it to the top, I want to use my success to give back to my community, similar to what the Jonathan Jackson Foundation does.”

John Musosi

 His words echo the profound effect that access to quality sports infrastructure can have on young individuals, not just in pursuing their dreams but also in instilling a spirit of philanthropy and community upliftment.

However, with only four basketball courts built so far, JJF still has a long way to go in reaching its goal of constructing 25 courts in Nairobi’s informal communities. To fully tap into the immense potential residing within these neighborhoods, the foundation needs the support of donors and partners who recognize the significance of investing in talent development and community empowerment.

By partnering with Jonathan Jackson Foundation, donors have an opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of young individuals like John Musosi and countless others. The construction of more basketball courts in Nairobi’s informal communities will not only provide safe spaces for talent to flourish but also contribute to the overall well-being of the residents by promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles.

It is through collaborative efforts and a shared vision that we can create a brighter future for the youth in Nairobi’s marginalized areas. Let us rally together, recognize the untapped potential, and invest in the construction of more basketball courts. Together, we can empower these communities by  nurturing talents where dreams become realities and success is used to uplift others.

For further information, please contact + 254 711 411 000 / info@jonathanjacksonfoundation.org