Building Movement Sustainability: A Milestone for YMCA Niger
Kushinga Kimberley Bande, My S2C Ambassador Experience
20/05/2024
Tribute to Patrick Agutu
18/06/2024
In the heart of May 2024, YMCA Niger experienced a significant moment of growth and learning when they welcomed Osborne Wanyama from the Africa Alliance of YMCAs.
This visit was more than just a meeting; it was a step towards a brighter future, aimed at ensuring the long-term sustainability and independence of YMCA Niger.
The mission’s primary focus was on the new sports center, a beacon of hope and engagement for the youth in Niger. Since its construction began in March 2023, this center has been envisioned as a place where young people from low-income families could come together, learn, and grow. Osborne's visit was pivotal in strategizing how this vision could be brought to life and sustained over time.
During Osborne's visit, the air was filled with ideas and plans as key stakeholders from YMCA Niger, including the national office members, the general secretary, dedicated staff, and enthusiastic young volunteers, came together. They brainstormed and mapped out interconnected activities and services that the sports center could offer. This included not only sports and recreational activities but also additional services like conference rooms, hotel accommodations, and catering. These services would not only enrich the community but also generate necessary income to sustain the center.
A significant part of the discussions revolved around how the sports center could contribute to climate-smart practices. YMCA Niger is keen on implementing sustainable food systems such as vegetable cultivation and poultry farming. This initiative is not just about providing food but also about teaching the community environmentally friendly practices and contributing to climate change mitigation.
The project’s success depends heavily on financial planning and investment. With this in mind, a 3D model of the sports center is being developed to help attract investors and donors by showcasing its potential and the impact it could have on the community.
Osborne's visit underscored the importance of youth empowerment. The sports center is envisioned as a safe haven for young people, offering training programs that build skills and confidence. It aims to foster a sense of community and belonging, encouraging youth to engage in positive and constructive activities.
This initiative aligns perfectly with YMCA's Vision 2030, which emphasizes holistic youth development and community transformation. It also contributes to the broader goals of the African Renaissance, aiming to create sustainable and resilient communities across the continent.
As YMCA Niger continues on this transformative journey, the support from the Africa Alliance of YMCAs stands as a testament to their commitment to sustainable development and community empowerment. The sports center project is set to become a model of integrated development, combining sports, education, and sustainability to create lasting positive impacts.
Stay tuned for more updates as YMCA Niger moves forward, building a brighter, more sustainable future for the youth and communities they serve. This is just the beginning of an inspiring story of growth and resilience.
