Nairobi, Kenya, Oct, 14 – Mobile technology brand TECNO has launched an ambitious project to renovate 100 football pitches across Africa, beginning with the Austin Grounds in Mathare’s Mulango Kubwa area, Nairobi.
The initiative marks the start of TECNO’s community-driven sports investment under its new partnership as Official Global Partner of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 and the East African tournament in 2027. The collaboration strengthens the company’s relationship with the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following its sponsorship of the 2023 edition.
Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony, Kinyago California Ward MCA Hashim Kamau praised the initiative, saying it would not only nurture local talent but also uplift communities through sport.
“This partnership between TECNO and AFCON is not only about celebrating football at the highest level, but also about investing in the grassroots, where the true heartbeat of the game lives,” Kamau said. “Football is more than just a game — it is hope.”
Area Chief Angela Nzioka joined local youth at the event, underscoring the importance of investing in safe and inclusive spaces for young people to engage in sports and community development.
The renovation program will target pitches in informal settlements and disadvantaged communities, where access to quality sports infrastructure remains limited. The upgrades are expected to include improved playing surfaces, goalposts, perimeter fencing, and lighting, depending on each location’s needs.
According to TECNO, the 100-pitch project is designed to create long-term social impact by empowering young athletes, promoting health, and strengthening community bonds through organized sports.
“Our goal is to ensure that football thrives at every level — from the community grounds where dreams begin to the international stage where African champions are made,” TECNO said in a statement.
The initiative aligns with CAF’s broader mission to promote football development across the continent and enhance access to facilities that inspire the next generation of players.
TECNO becomes the first mobile device brand to fund grassroots sports infrastructure of this scale in Africa, positioning its investment at the community level where emerging talent is identified and nurtured rather than solely focusing on major tournament venues.
The company said similar projects will roll out in other African countries in phases ahead of the AFCON Morocco 2025 tournament, with a focus on local partnerships and youth engagement programs.
