A stadium in Nairobi is the first in Kenya to have a solar powered floodlight system. The system was donated to the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA). This new system allows for 4 hours of lighted play into the evenings. How did the MYSA come to have this new system donated? “The development is a direct legacy of the first football World Cup in Africa held in South Africa last year: governing body FIFA afterward chose 20 African groups to house a Football for Hope Center to promote the sport, as well as health and education.” (discovery.com) Through this initiative, the solar lighting system was donated by China's Yingli Green Energy Holding Company. The benefits of this system go far beyond extra time on the pitch. This particular part of Nairobi is a tough slum area, and the lights of the stadium provide a safe place to play for the city’s youth. Also, the hot Kenyan sun makes mid-day practice difficult. These lights allow kids to play in the cooler evenings. Additionally, the stadium can be rented out for night events, which will help raise funds for the MYSA.
Clearly the benefits of hosting a World Cup can stretch far beyond 4 weeks of non-stop vuvuzelas. FIFA’s commitment to creating centers that offer hope to the host nation (or in this case host continent) can have positive impacts for decades to come. Additionally, it’s wonderful to see relatively self-sustaining technology being employed for longer term benefits. This is truly a gift that keeps giving night after night, (and renewing day after sunny day). Ref. discovery.com, FIFA.com
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