At the heart of Matayos sub-county in Busia County lies Harvest of Hope (HOHA), a non-profit charity organization that has captured the county’s attention over the past five years through its impactful projects.For many football enthusiasts, HOHA became widely known two years ago when the four-time FKF Premier League champions, Ulinzi Stars, faced them in the FKF Cup Round of 64 at Mumias Sports Complex.Although the military side triumphed 2-0, HOHA’s journey was just beginning.##NAJAVA_MECA_8589198##Today, the team competes in the FKF Division One League, the third tier of Kenyan football, where they have climbed to 12th place in the standings, boasting a perfect home record.Mozzart Sport sought insight into the unique story behind HOHA and met with the club’s CEO, Fred Munuku. During the conversation, it became evident that HOHA is more than just a football club—it is an organization using sports to transform society.“A report released in 2022 by the National Aids Control Council revealed the alarming spread of HIV among teenagers in western Kenya. HOHA realized that action was urgently needed,” Munuku shared, explaining the inspiration behind the organization’s initiatives.Initially, starting a football team was not part of their plans. However, after partnering with various medical centers, HOHA organized a soccer tournament to connect with young people, leveraging their love for the sport.“We used the tournament as an opportunity to reach out, talk to them, and learn more. Unfortunately, we found that many players who tested positive for HIV were also battling substance addiction,” Munuku recounted.Mariga-led task force begins search for next Harambee Stars coachFollowing the 2022 tournament, HOHA formed a football team composed of players struggling with addiction and others at risk of heading down a similar path.Through counseling and camaraderie, many rediscovered their faith and purpose, ultimately becoming part of the team.In 2023, HOHA made its competitive debut in the FKF Division Two Western Zone League.Despite a slow start under then-coach Michael Oboth, they earned promotion to the FKF Division One League through a merger.AFC Leopards captain Clifton Miheso on how Kenyan football can developThe squad now includes ten players who have undergone rehabilitation and are living as transformed members of society.“Currently, ten players on our senior team have completed the rehabilitation process and are now role models in the community,” Munuku added.When asked why football was their chosen medium, Munuku explained, “Football is the most popular sport in Western Kenya, making it easier to reach a larger audience. We also have a volleyball team, though we’re not yet in a competitive league. Next year, we plan to include athletics in our activities.”##NAJAVA_MECA_8586606##As for the future, the CEO said, “We have ambitious goals. We want to be the first team from Busia to play in the top tier in recent years. Additionally, we aim to establish more centers across the country, showing that sports and humanity go hand in hand.”Munuku cited inspiration from the National Super League outfit Mully Children Family (MCF), which has been using sports to improve lives across Kenya for the past 35 years, particularly in the Eastern region.
