What does Watoto Wasoka mean?
“Watoto Wasoka” means “Footballing Children” in Swahili. It captures who we are: children playing, learning, and leading — through football.
Where do you work?
We work in underserved communities, urban slums, and schools across Kampala and Wakiso, Uganda. Our programs reach both in-school and out-of-school children.
Are you connected to Watoto Church or Watoto Ministries?
No. Watoto Wasoka is completely independent and not affiliated with Watoto Church, Watoto Ministries, or watoto.com. We are a registered, non-religious, non-partisan Ugandan NGO. Our name means “footballing children” in Swahili, and reflects our mission to use football as a tool for learning, health, and inclusion.
Who do you work with?
Our work targets:
- Children aged 7–18, especially those in low-income or underserved communities
- Out-of-school youth
- Girls and young women
- Teachers, coaches, and peer educators
- Community members and caregivers
What kind of programs do you run?
Our work is organized under three pillars:
- Play to Learn – Using football to boost literacy, numeracy, and learning outcomes
- Play for Health – Promoting hygiene, mental health, and well-being through play-based, peer-led education
- Play for All – Advancing inclusion, gender equality, and talent development through accessible football programs
What makes your approach different?
We’re:
- Football-based – We start with the game the children love
- Play-led – Every session is active, joyful, and movement-driven
- Peer-powered – Children and youth lead the change as facilitators and role models
- Locally rooted – Our staff and coaches live where we work
- Results-driven – We track progress, listen, and adapt based on what works
How can I get involved?
So many ways!
- Donate to support a child, team, or event
- Partner with us as a funder, school, or NGO
- Volunteer or intern — on the field or behind the scenes
- Host a fundraiser in your school, workplace, or community
- Visit us in Kampala to see our work in action
How is my donation used?
Your donation goes directly toward creating real opportunities for children to play, learn, and thrive. It helps us:
- Deliver play-based learning sessions in schools and communities.
- Fund school health clubs and mental well-being activities.
- Equip girls’ football teams with uniforms, gear, and female coaches.
- Train peer leaders and teachers to deliver inclusive, play-led education.
- Organise football festivals like the Slums Derby and Christmas Camp, reaching thousands each year
Just as important, your support powers the people behind the programs – our dedicated staff, community coaches, youth facilitators, and mentors who show up every day to make the work possible. We’re committed to transparency and accountability. You can view our latest annual reports and financials in the Resources & Downloads section.
How can I bring your model to my school or community?
We offer:
- Trainings for teachers and community coaches
- Toolkits and manuals available in our Resources & Downloads section
- Partnership opportunities to replicate our model elsewhere
→ Email us at info@watotowasoka.ug to learn more
Is it just football?
Football is the entry point — but it’s much more. Our programs teach reading, mental health, teamwork, leadership, and life skills. It’s football with purpose.