Karabo Ramathe
Lesotho’s groundbreaking football charity and club, Kick4Life, marked its 20th anniversary on Saturday with a vibrant celebration at its Maseru headquarters, honouring two decades of transforming lives through sport.
The event brought together trustees, players, alumni, supporters, and government officials to reflect on the organisation’s journey and the many lives it has impacted through football-driven programmes in health, education, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
Founded in 2005, Kick4Life has grown from a grassroots initiative into one of the country’s leading sport-for-development institutions, combining football with targeted social interventions to uplift vulnerable youth across Lesotho.
Speaking at the ceremony, Matšeliso Lehohla, a member of the Kick4Life Board of Trustees, commended the organisation’s evolution and the dedication of those who have guided it along the way.
“As we celebrate the 20 years of social change in football, we also celebrate the milestones Kick4Life has achieved. It has been a great honour to be part of this process from the time of its inception to the prestigious organisation it is today,” Lehohla said.
She extended gratitude to the founders and past country directors, as well as the broader Kick4Life community, including management, staff, volunteers, and international partners, whose passion and commitment have shaped the club’s success.
Kick4Life is widely recognised for its holistic model that extends far beyond the football pitch. The organisation’s approach includes life-skills training, academic support, HIV testing and counselling, career development, and enterprise initiatives designed to provide pathways out of poverty for Basotho youth.
Lesotho Sports and Recreation Commission’s President Baba Maphalane, applauded the club’s role in shaping young lives and using football as a catalyst for national development.
“This centre has brought change among the children of Lesotho, which is exactly its mission,” Maphalane said.
“We want to see more centres like this across districts. Kick4Life welcomes every young person and gives them a chance to show their talents, even when facing challenges. Football here is more than sport; it is a catalyst. It has become a path out of poverty and unemployment for many.”
Reflecting on Kick4Life’s growth and achievements, Country Director Motlatsi Nkhahle noted how the club has embraced professionalism while maintaining its social mission.
“I come from a non-football background, but today, football is not just work, it is a passion,” said Nkhahle.
He highlighted recent successes, including the Women’s Super League title and the club’s rise into the top three teams nationally. Nkhahle also announced new developments, including the upcoming launch of a gymnasium and club shop in August, which will further enhance the club’s capacity and sustainability.
“We aim to uncover young talent and give every player a platform to excel. This club offers an opportunity to take it. Tsielo, for instance, and many others who have made us proud,” he added.
A highlight of the day was an emotional poetry performance by Kick4Life player Merriam Monnapula, titled “Kick4Life, a Welcoming Space.” Her poem celebrated the nurturing environment and opportunities the club has provided for countless young people.
“Kick4Life has been a mother to many, this is 20 years of hoping grace,” she recited. “We have created a culture where excellence is chased, where characters are shown.”
The celebration also recognised the achievements of student-athletes who started their journey at Kick4Life and have gone on to represent Lesotho locally and internationally. Many now serve as role models in their communities, demonstrating the long-term impact of the organisation’s work.
Your Trusted Source for News and Insights in Lesotho!
At Newsday Media, we are passionate about delivering accurate, timely, and engaging news and multimedia content to our diverse audience. Founded with the vision of revolutionizing the media landscape in Lesotho, we have grown into a leading hybrid media company that blends traditional journalism with innovative digital platforms.
