JICA launches initiative to promote women’s football talent among refugees

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has launched a talent identification and promotion initiative for women’s football among refugees and host communities in Rhino Settlement Camp, Terego District.

The program, implemented in partnership with the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the Federation of Uganda Football Associations (FUFA), and Soltilo Bright Stars (SBS), aims to empower young girls through sports.

On March 4, a football clinic was held at Ofua Youth Centre playground in Terego District, featuring teams from Ofua, Tika, and Omugo zones. The event, organized ahead of International Women’s Day, aimed to identify players who will represent Rhino Settlement Camp in the 2025 TICAD Cup, scheduled for September this year. Despite playing barefoot, the young girls showcased impressive skills and learned techniques from SBS coaches and players.

Ofua zone defeated Tika 2-1, while matches between Ofua and Omugo, and Omugo and Tika, ended in a goalless draw and a 1-0 win for Tika, respectively.

JICA’s Chief Representative in Uganda, Inoue Yoichi, emphasized the role of sports in promoting peace, development, and gender equality. “Since 2021, JICA has been promoting peaceful co-existence and empowering women through sports. We are committed to supporting the government of Uganda and OPM in managing refugee responsibilities,” he said.

Yoichi also announced plans for the TICAD Cup, a women’s football tournament to be held in Japan in August or September, where 15 selected players from Rhino Camp will participate.

Harold Atukwatse, CEO of Soltilo Bright Stars, highlighted the ongoing assessment process to select the final team. Meanwhile, FUFA’s Executive Member, Rasoul Ariga, stressed the need for female coaches to support women’s football development in refugee camps.

The initiative aligns with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Accelerate Action,” calling for concrete steps toward gender equality and inclusion. Through sports, JICA and its partners aim to empower young women, strengthen community bonds, and unlock the potential of women in sports.