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Four years ago, the Mashemeji Derby united rival teams to find missing children, showcasing football's humanitarian power across Africa
In the often adrenaline-fueled world of football, where rivalry runs deep and emotions run high, the Mashemeji Derby is traditionally known for its fierce competition, passionate fans, and sometimes even unruly behavior.
However, beyond the goals and tackles, a heartwarming humanitarian gesture took center stage, captivating the hearts of Africa and showcasing the beautiful side of Kenyan football.
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17:06 - 05.10.2023
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On that fateful day, May 19, 2019, as the sun kissed the lush green pitch at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani, there was something notably different in the air at the Mashemeji Derby between Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards. It wasn't about the usual mascots or the deafening cheers from the stands; it was about bringing hope and reuniting families.
In most football matches worldwide, players are often accompanied by child mascots, aiming to promote children's rights, innocence in the sport, fulfill dreams, or sometimes to make a profit. This tradition has been a staple since the 1990s, with children proudly walking hand in hand with their football heroes.
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16:32 - 05.10.2023
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However, on this exceptional day, a remarkable twist unfolded. As the Gor Mahia and AFC Leopards players made their way onto the hallowed turf, there were no mascots in sight. Instead, they carried the portraits of missing children, their innocence, dreams, and aspirations serving as a beacon of hope for those who needed it most.
The powerful statement made by both teams transcended the boundaries of sportsmanship. It was a powerful call to action, a collective voice raised for a humanitarian cause.
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16:03 - 05.10.2023
FKFPL Gor Mahia coach McKinstry rallies troops ahead of crunch Mashemeji derby
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In a riveting 3-1 victory for Gor Mahia, the triumph on the scoreboard was overshadowed by the triumph of humanity. Three missing children, whose faces were prominently displayed by the players, were miraculously found and reunited with their families within a mere 24 hours.
The then league managers Kenyan Premier League, recognizing the profound impact of this unprecedented gesture, expressed their delight in a statement, saying, "KPL is delighted to learn that three children whose photographs had been carried by AFC Leopards and Gor Mahia players have since been found safe and reunited with their families."
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15:37 - 05.10.2023
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This remarkable initiative was made possible through the collaboration with Missing Child Kenya, a community-led portal committed to working with organizations, individuals in the child protection sector, and the public. Together, they harnessed the power of various media platforms to share information about missing children, all while bearing no cost to the affected families. It was a remarkable display of unity and collective responsibility, proving that football can be a powerful tool for social change.
The impact of the Mashemeji Derby's humanitarian gesture reached far beyond the borders of Kenya. It reverberated throughout the African continent, garnering recognition at the African Media and Advertising Summit in Marrakesh, Morocco.
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