The 2008 Kenyan Premier League champions Mathare United FC together with 1xBet successfully held the second phase of the 1xBet Mtaani Project in Kibera, reinforcing their shared commitment to community development through sport.
The initiative was held on Saturday at the Laini Saba grounds in a colourful event that attracted over 1,000 fans. It included the donation of essential sports equipment and fan engagement activities aimed at empowering local youth.
The event was headlined by a friendly match between Mathare United FC and A Mosquito FC which ended 3-0 in favour of the Slum Boys. Ian Omondi, Elli Asieche and Harrison Amalemba scored for Mathare United in the second half after a goalless draw in the opening 45 minutes.
At the end of the friendly match, A Mosquito FC received a full donation of essential football equipment, including: footballs, training bibs, goal nets, space markers, cones, agility ladders and whistles courtesy of 1xBet.
“I want to say a big thank you to Mathare United and 1xBet for coming up with this initiative. It’s been a great experience for our young players to play alongside the likes of Masika. This exposure will go a long way in motivating them because it is not common for a Premier League club to make time to come and play and share words of encouragement with clubs in the grassroots,” said A Mosquito FC Captain Stanley Odhiambo.
A friendly match between the 2008 Kenyan Premier League champions Mathare United FC and A Mosquito FC underway at Laini Saba grounds during second phase of the 1xBet Mtaani Project in Kibera
The grassroots project 1XBET MTAANI is designed to inspire the next generation of footballers and support local talent through direct engagement.
Mathare United players led by head coach John Kamau, Captain Brian Ochieng’ and star midfielder Musa Masika held a mentorship session with A Mosquito FC sharing tips, experiences, and real stories about life as professional athletes. It was a unique opportunity for A Mosquito FC players to learn, grow, and see a path forward in their football journey.
“This project is such an amazing initiative by 1xBet. We’ve been received very well here in Kibera and I hope we can have these matches more frequently. It’s an amazing opportunity for us to interact with the community, meet new people and build friendships through football.
“The grassroots team face a lot of challenges and I hope that the equipment we’ve donated will boost them and encourage the players to continue following their dreams because we also started playing football in such grounds,” said Mathare United Captain Ochieng.
“Firstly, a big kudos to 1xBet for honouring their word and continuing with this project. It’s a good feeling to come to the West side of Nairobi and especially Kibera to interact with the community. When people hear about Kibera slums they think of bad things but what I’ve seen here today is special. I’m overwhelmed by how we’ve been received here and that’s the power of football.
“Through the efforts of our sponsor 1xBet, we have scouted some players from A Mosquito FC players who we will invite to train with us during preseason to assess them further. I believe they have something to offer and can play in the Premier League,” added Mathare United Head Coach Kamau.
FUN DAY: Football fans being entertained with a friendly match between the 2008 Kenyan Premier League champions Mathare United FC against A Mosquito at Laini Saba grounds during the second phase of the 1xBet Mtaani Project in Kibera. Mathare won 3-0
The 1XBET MTAANI is a community initiative that goes far beyond 90 minutes of play. This event, built on the message of “Football for Good” brings together professional athletes, young aspiring players, and local residents for a day of sport, mentorship, and meaningful connection.
“We believe that football is more than a game — it is a platform for opportunity, unity, and growth in communities like Kibera,” said 1xBet’s representative. “1XBET MTAANI project is about mentorship, empowerment, and leaving a lasting impact.”
By bridging the gap between elite football and local passion, the project aims to uplift young players and connect with the community through shared values and support.
1xBet is a socially responsible international brand that supports community initiatives in Kenya and across Africa. Through partnerships with local organizations such as Mathare United FC, the company invests in projects that promote youth development, education, and social empowerment.
