Papa Legend Company, a U.S.-based organization founded by members of the Banyamulenge refugee community, has announced a new initiative aimed at scouting and developing talented football players across the East African region.
The program will focus on six countries: Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, with the goal of empowering youth and promoting the growth of professional football in the region.
According to an official statement released on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, this football project is an extension of Papa Legend Company’s ongoing activities, which include major cultural events such as Miss Mulenge World ; a prestigious beauty pageant that celebrates the talent and heritage of the Banyamulenge community. Uwase Deborah recently won the 2023-2024 edition.
“Papa Legend Company has always been committed to initiatives that empower young people from the Banyamulenge community and beyond. Today, we are expanding into sports by giving talented footballers a platform to showcase their skills and transition into professional careers,”
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Papa Legend OG, Founder and CEO, said in the statement.
How the program will work
Each participating country will select 40 players who will compete in a trial tournament designed to evaluate their talent and skill level.
From this group, 24 players will be chosen to form a new football team under the brand LEGENDS F.C., which will represent their country.
In addition, four (4) technical experts will be selected in each country to assist with scouting, coaching, and player development throughout the process.
Impact on youth across the region
East Africa is home to a wealth of young football talent, but many promising players face challenges such as lack of professional training, limited access to competitive teams, and few opportunities to be scouted by international clubs.
Papa Legend Company’s initiative seeks to bridge this gap by creating a structured pathway for these players to grow their skills and gain exposure to professional opportunities.
“Our mission is to help young people build a brighter future through football. This program will not only showcase their talent but also connect them with clubs and organizations that can take them to the next level,” Papa Legend OG added.
Registration details
Both players and experts interested in participating are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Players should send their full names to the following numbers:
- +1 (806) 683-7104
- +254 768 832560
Coaches and football experts are required to submit their CVs via email: papalegendfoundation@gmail.com
Papa Legend Company’s legacy of youth empowerment
Papa Legend Company has built a reputation for hosting events that celebrate culture, talent, and empowerment within the Banyamulenge community and beyond.
One of its most well-known initiatives is the Miss Mulenge World pageant, which highlights the beauty, intelligence, and cultural pride of young women from the community. The most recent winner, Uwase Deborah, was crowned Miss Mulenge World 2023-2024 in a vibrant ceremony.
This new football project further demonstrates the company’s dedication to creating opportunities for youth, this time through sports and athletic development.
Building hope for the future
Sports analysts believe this program has the potential to transform football across East Africa by giving undiscovered talents a chance to shine. It is also expected to attract sponsors, strengthen local teams, and create new pathways for players to join professional clubs globally.
By nurturing both players and coaching staff, the initiative could serve as a catalyst for job creation and long-term economic growth in the region’s sports industry.
Papa Legend Company’s latest project represents a bold step toward unlocking the potential of East Africa’s young footballers.
By offering an inclusive platform for players and experts alike, Legends F.C. will not only showcase emerging talent but also strengthen the region’s presence on the global football stage.
This initiative builds on Papa Legend’s tradition of investing in youth, culture, and community, with a vision to transform lives through both sports and entertainment.
Contact Information:
- Papa Legend Company
- Email: papalegendfoundation@gmail.com
- Phone: +1 (806) 683-7104 / +254 768 832560
