WAJIR, Kenya, Nov 30 — A landmark moment for inclusivity and disability sports unfolded in Wajir Town as the first-ever North Eastern Region Deaf Tournament brought together athletes, community leaders, and supporters for a day of passion, resilience, and sporting excellence.
The Wajir Deaf Community emerged victorious, narrowly defeating the Dadaab Community 1–0 in a tense and thrilling final, marking a historic achievement for the region’s Deaf athletes.
The tournament, which attracted teams from Wajir, Garissa, and Dadaab municipalities, was born out of a vision to promote integration and provide meaningful engagement for young people with disabilities.
Organizers emphasized that the event also serves as a tool for social transformation, keeping youth away from drug abuse, idleness, and extremist recruitment.
Deputy Governor Ahmed Muhumed Abdi, who presided over the final match, hailed the initiative as a groundbreaking milestone for disability sports and youth safety in the region.
“This tournament has grown into an important platform for motivating persons living with disabilities. It not only promotes sporting excellence but also shields young people from drugs, crime, and extremist influences. This is how community security is strengthened,” said Abdi.
The event drew support from various leaders and institutions, including CEC for Water Services Issa Gorare, Siyad Foundation Project Manager Adan Noor, Municipality Manager Omar Shano, PWDS Northern Kenya Chairman Hafid Maalim, FKF Wajir Branch Chairman Abdinasir Mohamed, and Equity Bank Wajir Manager Abdiqani Omar.
A statement from Abdalla Hassan Siyad, founder of the Siyad Foundation, highlighted the importance of promoting inclusivity and creating platforms for the Deaf community.
“At Siyad Foundation, we firmly believe in a world that embraces inclusivity. Disability is not inability; our brothers and sisters are simply abled differently, and many continue to excel far beyond societal expectations,” said Siyad.
He further called on stakeholders to invest more in programs supporting the Deaf community.
The event concluded with celebrations from players, organizers, and supporters, signaling a new chapter for Deaf sports in northern Kenya and highlighting the importance of inclusive opportunities in fostering empowerment and social cohesion.
