The National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons (NAATIP), in partnership with Yakar Football School of Excellence, successfully concluded the “Kick Football, Kick Trafficking” U-17 Football Tournament with an exciting grand finale at Abuko Lower Basic School Football Field.
The tournament was organised as part of activities commemorating the World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, using the power of football to engage young people and raise awareness about the dangers of human trafficking.
The grand finale was graced by the Executive Director of NAATIP, Ms. Isatou Dabo, the Regional Immigration Commissioner for the Kanifing Municipality Region, Mr. Omar Fofana, senior officers of the Gambia Immigration Department, NAATIP staff, football stakeholders, players, supporters and members of the community.
In her remarks, the Executive Director thanked the people of Abuko and the surrounding communities, as well as the organisers, players and partners for their support. She emphasised the importance of using sports as a platform to engage young people, raise awareness on human trafficking and encourage them to become ambassadors in the fight against trafficking.
Ms. Dabo also encouraged the young players to remain vigilant and understand the risks and dangers associated with human trafficking. She reaffirmed NAATIP’s commitment to supporting youth-focused initiatives through sports and strengthening partnerships with stakeholders in the fight against trafficking in persons.
A SYMBOLIC KICK AGAINST TRAFFICKING
The symbolic kick-off was performed by Regional Immigration Commissioner Mr. Omar Fofana and Executive Director Ms. Isatou Dabo. Mr. Fofana passed the ball to Ms. Dabo, who proudly “kicked trafficking out” a powerful gesture symbolising the collective commitment to preventing and ending human trafficking.
HALFTIME SENSITISATION
During the halftime break, NAATIP staff took to the field to conduct a public sensitisation session on Trafficking in Persons (TIP). Players, supporters and community members were educated on the dangers of trafficking, prevention measures, the importance of protecting vulnerable persons and the role everyone can play in reporting suspected cases.
GRAND FINAL RESULT
Yakar Football School of Excellence 
– 
Better Tomorrow Football Academy
After an exciting and competitive encounter, Better Tomorrow Football Academy emerged as the champions of the “Kick Football, Kick Trafficking” U-17 Football Tournament.
AWARDS & RECOGNITION
Both Better Tomorrow Football Academy and Yakar Football School of Excellence were recognised for their outstanding participation, with players from both teams receiving medals.
Individual and team awards were also presented, including:
Best Player Award
Best Goalkeeper Award
Best Goal Scorer Award
Most Disciplined Team Award
The Executive Director of NAATIP, Ms. Isatou Dabo, had the honour of crowning the winning team, presenting the championship medals and trophy to Better Tomorrow Football Academy.
Congratulations to Better Tomorrow Football Academy, Yakar Football School of Excellence, all participating teams, players, organisers and partners for making the tournament a memorable success.
Together, we can use the power of sport to protect children, raise awareness and end human trafficking.
KICK FOOTBALL. 
KICK TRAFFICKING.
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