‘Football for Humanity’ — a UN Diplomatic sports initiative launching from Kuwait in November
The proceeds from a children’s football tournament and a charity auction of exclusive football memorabilia will be dedicated to providing vital support to Palestinian children, with all funds managed exclusively by the Kuwait Red Crescent Society.
The Times Kuwait Report
Harnessing the global popularity of football to serve humanitarian diplomacy and provide tangible support to children affected by crises, the “Football for Humanity” initiative held a press conference yesterday morning at Al Hamra Shopping Center to officially announce the launch of its first edition from Kuwait.
The event was held under the patronage of Foreign Minister Abdullah Al-Yahya, and in partnership with the United Nations, represented by UNESCO, the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Office of the UN Resident Coordinator in Kuwait, with the participation of nine embassies and the Kuwaiti private sector.
The proceeds from a children’s football tournament and a charity auction of exclusive football memorabilia will be dedicated to providing vital support to Palestinian children, with all funds managed exclusively by the Kuwait Red Crescent Society.
Kuwait’s Humanitarian Role
Assistant Foreign Minister for International Organizations Affairs and member of the initiative’s Board of Trustees, Minister Plenipotentiary Abdulaziz Al-Jarallah, stated that the Ministry’s sponsorship of Football for Humanity reflects Kuwait’s role as a center for humanitarian action, supporting countries in times of crisis and alleviating the suffering of people around the world — particularly reaffirming Kuwait’s principled and steadfast stance in supporting the brotherly Palestinian people.
He added that this initiative represents an innovative model of humanitarian diplomacy, serving as a tool for achieving sustainable peace and strengthening international cooperation. Al-Jarallah also praised the UN’s support for this humanitarian effort and extended his gratitude to the embassies of participating countries for their collaboration in promoting the initiative’s message and its mission to help children worldwide.
UN Commendation
For her part, Ghada El-Taher, the UN Resident Coordinator in Kuwait, expressed great pleasure in collaborating on organizing Football for Humanity, noting that the initiative aligns perfectly with the United Nations’ principles by promoting human values and global solidarity through youth engagement in sports.
“We are working together today to highlight the message of peace and humanity from Kuwait to the world,” she said.
A Kuwaiti Message of Hope
Sheikha Intisar Salem Al-Ali, Chairperson of the non-profit Al-Nuwer Foundation and Head of the Organizing Committee, described the launch of Football for Humanity from Kuwait as a clear message—to build a global movement uniting the efforts of governments, companies, athletes, and communities.
“Our aim is to transform the passion for football into hope and opportunities for children, year after year,” she said, adding that the universal appeal of football transcends borders, unites cultures, and spreads hope in the hearts of children affected by crises.
Private Sector Support
Tarek Sultan, Vice Chairman of Agility, one of the initiative’s main sponsors, said: “Agility is proud to support Football for Humanity, reflecting our belief in the important role the private sector plays in supporting communities — whether by responding to emergencies or contributing to youth development, education, and public health.”
Abrar Al-Habeeb, General Manager of Al Hamra Real Estate Company, another sponsor, said: “At Al Hamra, we believe that true success is not measured solely by architectural or commercial achievements, but by our positive social impact. We place support and empowerment at the heart of our mission and constantly strive to innovate and create a sustainable environment centred around people — especially children.”
Amin Mohammed, CEO of Kout Food Group, the franchisee of Pizza Hut Kuwait, also emphasized: “As a Kuwaiti company built on generosity and social responsibility, Kout Food Group is proud to support Football for Humanity, which seeks to transform the passion for football into hope for children. This reflects Kuwait’s humanitarian role and the private sector’s ability to make a real difference. Supporting a cause that aids Palestinian children through sports and solidarity perfectly aligns with our values of community development and human progress.”
Football Memorabilia and Tournament
Following the press conference, media representatives toured the exclusive football memorabilia exhibition at Al Hamra Shopping Center, which includes signed items and collections provided by the embassies of participating countries, featuring contributions from the Brazilian and Italian national teams, as well as Marquinhos, captain of Paris Saint-Germain, and Andrés Iniesta, the legendary Spanish and former FC Barcelona player.
Visitors can view the items and participate in the online charity auction until November 7.
The youth football tournament will take place on November 6–7, featuring 32 teams with 256 boys and girls aged 9 to 11. The opening ceremony will be held at Jaber Al-Mubarak Stadium in Sulaibikhat, alongside family-friendly entertainment and a fun shopping area.
The event is open to the public free of charge, inviting all citizens and residents to attend, cheer for the young players, and enjoy an atmosphere filled with sportsmanship, unity, and hope.
