Basketball in Africa

• May 14, 2014
• Written by Franklin Kaweru

Sport plays a positive role in youth development, including improved academic achievement, higher self-esteem and fewer behavioural problems. Competence, confidence, connections, character, and caring – which are considered by many as critical components of positive youth development are the focus of youth sport.
Dr. Emmanuel Elobu, Emmanuel Angwella, Fredricks Owora and Gad Eteu can’t agree more as that was in sight when starting ‘Just Keep Living’ (JKL) Dolphins basketball club – team made up of school going players. “It is all about the development of (youth) players in all aspects of life. We want them to ‘just keep living’ no matter what” Angwella told Kawowo Sports.
The literature on youth sport stresses the positive effects of participation in learning the important life skills of goal setting and time management combined with enjoyment; the development of a strong sense of morality; and the development of an appreciation of diversity “This is a group different players that were hand-picked. We want to nature these guys along the line they wish to if they are not playing basketball” Eteu said.
One of the major issues that have affected sport in this country has been finance. Basketball giants – Power, Warriors and Falcons let alone City Oilers have given proper demonstrations by landing deals with different companies to finance the clubs and JKL proprietors’ are looking in a similar direction. “We have given it five years to develop. We are using our incomes to finance the club activities at the moment but we want this club to finance its activities within that period (5 years) of time. We want to have as many partners on board as we can.” Angwella said.
Under the guidance of Brian Wathum assisted by local basketball legend Henry Malinga and the determination of the proprietors JKL Dolphins might be the next big thing in Ugandan Basketball. JKL is currently playing Division 2. “We want Dolphins to be the most competitive club in the region. We want to be up there in 5 years” Angwella told Kawowo Sports.
You can follow the activities of the club on social media. Facebook: JKL Dolphins Basketball CLUB  Twitter: @jkldolphins256