SOS Children’s village in Bakoteh on Saturday 3rd October 2009 celebrated the 9th edition of the Global Peace Games at the Father Gough Sports Complex in Manjai.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Acting National Director for SOS Madam Oumou Taal stated that, “SOS Children’s villages and play soccer, with the support of FIFA responded to this call by organising for the past 9 years the Global Peace Games for children and youth in celebration of the international day of peace.

According to her this games also respond to the call of the MDGs”.

Interim Chairman of the National Sports Council Mustapha Alex Dacosta delivered a message on behalf of Mr. Wilfried Lemke special adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General on sport for development and peace to the participants of the Global Peace Games 2009 for children and youth.

He said, ‘The United Nations welcomes the opportunity to support the Global Peace Games. Sport is one of the most effective and powerful tools to promote peace, tolerance and understanding by bringing people together across boundaries, cultures and religions”.

“By participating in the Global Peace Games 2009 you are contributing to the efforts of the United Nations to create world peace. You will learn the importance of values such as honesty, discipline, fair play, respect for oneself and others, and adherence to the rules,” the NSC Chairman stated.

He pointed out that throughout the world and during the games, the flame of sport, happiness and friendship is burning.

Other speakers include Jammeh Bojang GFA, Secretary General  Jammeh Bojang who represented Seedy Kinteh, Abdoulie Kah Deputy permanent secretary Ministry of Youth and Sports who also represented Honourable Sheriff M. L. Gomez and Yankuba Sanyang deputy Mayor KMC who also deputies Yankuba Colley.

As part of the matches, Father Gough Football Academy was crowned champions in the junior category after defeating SOS Children Village by 2-0. Samba Jawneh scored both goals for Father Gough Football Academy in the 14th and 16th minutes respectively.

In the Male senior category Ron Mango emerged champions after beating SOS Youth Village by a goal to nil on penalty spot following a goalless draw in the 90 minutes.

In the Female category Interior FC were named champions after defeating Red Scorpions 2-1 on penalty shoot-out.

Father Gough Football Academy and Ron Mango the Male champions and Interior FC the Female champions were awarded each a Trophy, Chain Medals, T- Shirts, balls and a Carton of jersey each.

SOS Children Village, SOS Youth Village, Father Gough Football Academy and Bradford were also awarded each Chain Medals, T- Shirts, and Carton of jersey and a ball each in the Male category for their participation.

Red Scorpions, Abuko United and City Girls were also awarded with Medals, T- Shirts, and box of jersey and a ball each for also taking part in the Female category.