Ligi East Africa Cup

The Ligi Ndogo East African Cup is an annual youth football tournament held every August in Nairobi, Kenya. Established in 2008, the tournament brings together teams from across East Africa to celebrate young talent, promote grassroots football, and address key issues affecting youth development in the region.

Every year, the tournament is guided by a theme that reflects the needs and aspirations of young people in East Africa. The 2025 theme is:

“Grassroots Football: Building the Future of East Africa.”

Purpose and Impact

The East African Cup is more than just a football event. It is a platform for development, education, and empowerment. With participation from over 80 teams representing Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, and more, the tournament brings together:

• Youth players (boys and girls)

• Coaches and academies

• Development organizations

• Local and regional stakeholders

Together, we use football as a tool to discuss and promote positive values, healthy living, education, and opportunities for growth.

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Why Grassroots Football?

Football is a language young people understand. Across East Africa, many youths face challenges such as migration, lack of opportunity, and social instability. Grassroots football provides:

• A safe space for expression and learning

• A platform to showcase talent

• A training ground for life skills like teamwork, discipline, and leadership

By strengthening basic football skills—passing, receiving, shooting, and technique—young players are better equipped to succeed not just in football, but in life.

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Promoting Healthy Living

Health and hygiene remain at the heart of the tournament. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, we've emphasized:

• Regular handwashing before and after games

• Encouraging balanced diets and healthy habits

• Teaching players about hygiene, mental wellness, and physical fitness

We believe that healthy players are better learners and stronger athletes.

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2025 Objectives

1. Raise awareness about youth migration, opportunities, and risks.

2. Share football development knowledge through on-field experience.

3. Promote youth integration and social development across East Africa.

4. Encourage healthy lifestyles and positive routines.

5. Select and develop an East African All-Star team across all age categories.

6. Help coaches reflect on past performance and identify areas for improvement.

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What to Expect in 2025

1. Tournament Matches

Over 100 teams will compete across seven age categories (U7 to U20) for both boys and girls. The competition will include group stages and knockouts, with trophies awarded in Main Cup, Plate, and Bowl categories.

2. Breakout Discussions and Exhibitions

Guest speakers, organizations, and development partners will host booths and sessions to engage players and parents on key youth-related topics.

3. City Tour: Knowing East Africa

A guided tour of Nairobi will be organized for visiting teams, helping players experience Kenyan culture and heritage during the tournament week.

4. Post-Tournament Development

Top talents will be selected to join the Ligi Ndogo East Africa All-Star Teams, offering further training, exposure, and long-term development opportunities beyond the tournament.

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Join Us!

The Ligi Ndogo East African Cup 2025 is not just a football tournament—it’s a celebration of youth, growth, and the power of sport to bring East Africa together. Whether you're a player, coach, parent, or supporter, we welcome you to be part of this inspiring journey.

2025 Ligi Ndogo East Africa Cup Schedule

From the 7th August 2025 to 9th August 2025