Nairobi: Women aged over 50 years are defying age barriers by embracing football as a tool for fitness, healing, and togetherness under the initiative 'Kick for Health.' Hundreds of women drawn from Elgeyo Marakwet and Narok counties gathered at Nasaruni Academy playground to showcase their talent in soccer.
According to Kenya News Agency, although the two teams were competing for a trophy, their primary goal was to stay fit and have fun. The program was founded by Dr. Elizabeth Keitany after her mother fell ill, an experience that inspired her to introduce football as a way of promoting wellness and active living among older women. Dr. Keitany revealed that the program is registered under the Kenya Grannies Football Federation and so far has brought together women teams from Makwo, Kaptarakwa and Kapcheptek in Elgeyo Marakwet County and Ololulunga, Oleleshwa (one) and Oleleshwa (two) from Narok County.
Recent matches saw Kaptarakwa edge out Oleleshwa (one) 1-0, while Kapcheptek defeated Oleleshwa (two) 2-0. At the same time, Ololulunga and Makwo played a goalless game in the tightly contested match. Participants shared powerful testimonies of the program's impact on their health. Gladys Lagat, 55, from Elgeyo Marakwet, disclosed that she is a living beneficiary of the program. 'I suffered a spine dislocation and was preparing for surgery, but football helped me recover. I now advise older people to take football seriously because it really helps,' she said.
Miriam Tanui, 62, from Narok County, called on support from the government to buy uniforms, balls and transportation. 'Football should not be limited to the young generation alone. I ask our leaders to support us to continue with this program and bring more women on board,' said Ms. Tanui. Naiduta Lekishon, 72, reiterated that the game has re-energized her body and continues to be an inspiration to younger generations. 'Exercise is everything in someone's body,' she said, while also expressing gratitude to the founder.
With hopes for more funding and recognition, the Kenyan Grannies Football Federation is proving that age is no barrier to a healthy, active, and cohesive country.