Doha, Qatar: With the participation of 116 players and referees, and with dozens of supporters in attendance, the African communities’ football league—representing several nationalities—has officially kicked off. The Sheikh Abdulla Bin Zaid Al Mahmoud Islamic Cultural Center organises this programme in response to the recreational needs of these communities. The league is accompanied by general educational segments introducing Qatari society and its customs.
The tournament runs over three Fridays, during which participants compete enthusiastically and enjoy spending time together. This is followed by brief talks highlighting the key customs and behaviours that should be observed in Qatar, out of respect for its identity and society.
At the conclusion of the league, the winning team is honoured with a symbolic trophy. The tournament coincides with a cricket league for the Sri Lankan community, and follows previous tournaments organised for the Filipino community in basketball and for the Nepalese community in volleyball.
These sports activities are part of the Center’s strategy to meet the needs of diverse communities by planning and organising a variety of programmes that combine education and recreation in line with audience interests, reflecting the Center’s recognition of the importance of cooperation with communities and caring for them.