A schools football tournament kicked off in Kismayo this week, bringing together boys' and girls' teams from secondary schools across the region for two weeks of matches.

The opening games drew large crowds of students, parents and teachers, who lined the edges of the pitch waving school colours. Organisers said the tournament was designed to promote teamwork and healthy competition between schools.

Grades count too

Under the tournament rules, players must keep up their attendance and grades to stay eligible, a condition teachers say has motivated students in the classroom as well as on the pitch. "If you miss lessons, you miss matches. The students know the rule and they respect it," said a head teacher whose school entered two teams.

Girls' teams are taking part for the first time in several schools, and their matches have drawn some of the loudest support. A coach of one girls' side said many of her players had only started training a few months ago but were improving quickly.

Local referees are volunteering their time to officiate the matches, and some are using the tournament to mentor older students interested in becoming referees themselves. Organisers say this helps build skills that the region's football community needs.

Scouts from local clubs are expected to attend the later rounds. The final will be played at the city's main stadium, with medals for the winning teams and awards for fair play.

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