The Jonathan Jackson Foundation (JJF) yesterday launched the ‘Bakee Mtaani the basketball court in Nairobi at Riruta Stadium in Kawangware.
The ceremony focused on empowering the community members through the support of world class sports facilities.
Gatina Primary and HGM Primary School both in Dagoretti North were the beneficiaries of this initiative.
JJF has an ambitious plan is to construct 12 basketball courts in Kenya in the first phase of construction.
The basketball court will provide a safe space for the youths to interact and hone their sporting talents, keeping them positively engaged and hence reducing the chances of them taking part in crime, prostitution and drug and substance abuse.
Exposure to professional basketball players, life skills, camaraderie, and fellowship among the youth, as well as basketball scholarships to promote basketball pro-level playing as a career, are all part of the project’s long-term agenda.
Jonathan Jackson, Chairman of JJF and main sponsor of the Bakee Mtaani project said: “I am deeply encouraged by the support for sports in Dagoretti South Constituency under MP John Kiarie’s leadership. I commit to build up to five basketball facilities in Dagoretti region.”
David Kariuki, Managing Director of Metrocart Limited congratulated the Jonathan Jackson Foundation for creating the facility that fosters sportsmanship. “As a show of support, Metrocart offers to install 4 solar floodlight to ensure the court is well lit for use at night and for security,” said Kariuki.
Nairobi Metropolitan Services Representative Jane Kagiri stated that the investment supplements the community investments done by NMS and goes beyond sports and positively affects the mental health of the youths and the community at large.
Dagoretti South Hon. John Kiarie (KJ) who was the chief guest said: “With the opening of the Riruta Basketball Court, four community teams comprising of two men and two ladies’ teams have been formed. Sustainable development of the young people is achieved through sports and cultural investments within the communities.”
Also in attendance was the Chair of the Nairobi Basketball Association (NBA), Ronnie Owino, who announced that the Nairobi Basketball league will start on March 19 with 46 teams. “The opening of this court will see some league matches being played here,” he said.