Talented Mathare kids benefit from Harambee Stars defender's Mozzart Bet Cup award
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Reading Time: 3min | Fri. 22.05.26. | 17:32
The log-serving defender visited the kids along with his teammates" Daniel Sakari and Geoffrey Onyango
When Abud Omar stepped up and curled home his trademark free kick to hand Kenya Police FC a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Shabana, the moment meant everything to both the defender and the club.
The decisive goal, scored during the rain-soaked Mozzart Bet Cup quarterfinal clash at Gusii Stadium on 15 June, sent Police into the semifinals of the 2026 edition.
But beyond the celebrations for Abud and Police, the strike carried a deeper meaning in the streets of Mathare, an area rich with diverse talent.
Beyond its sporting significance, the goal also brought smiles to the faces of the Mathare Kids Talent Hub, a group of young boys and girls renowned for showcasing exceptional dancing and artistic skills.
The smiles came after Abud redeemed his Humanitarian Cheque, which he earned after being named Man of the Match in the game, and used it to purchase essential items for the group.
The defender, who also serves as Police assistant captain, visited the outfit in Mathare on Thursday evening and delivered items worth Ksh 100,000.
He was accompanied by his teammates, Daniel Sakari and Geoffrey Onyango, during the visit that saw them wait patiently wait until the youngsters were done with school program for the day.
" I first learned about the incredible talent and potential of these children during the 2024 African Nations Championship through Chrispine Erambo. Since then, I have kept a close eye on their activities. After winning the Man of the Match award, Erambo encouraged me to give back, and I was delighted to meet the children and make a difference in their lives,” said the Kenyan international.
While many award winners often choose to donate their prize money to sporting institutions, Abud emphasized the importance of supporting talent beyond the pitch.
The former Tusker FC player, who was born and raised in Tudor, Mombasa, said extending a helping hand to vulnerable children from underprivileged backgrounds can play a key role in steering them away from negative influences and giving them hope for a better future.
“Growing up in Mombasa, I witnessed first-hand how a lack of support can derail talented children. I went to school with players who were even better than me, while others possessed different talents altogether. Unfortunately, many of them lost their way and fell into bad company because they lacked the support needed to nurture their abilities. That is why it gives me great joy to support young boys and girls who view their talent as a pathway to a better future,” he said.
At the same time, Abud applauded Mozzart Bet for introducing the Humanitarian Cheque initiative, noting that its impact has been evident since its inception.
This is the fourth year the firm is consistently rewarding outstanding players in the competition from the quarterfinal all the way to the final.
“I have seen the positive difference the cheque has made in society. Players have used it to give back to their former clubs and support the less fortunate. This is far more meaningful than simply handing players cash,” he added.
Meanwhile, Mathare Kids Talent Hub founder Emmanuel John thanked Abud and the betting giants for making a stop at their base.
“We have had the privilege of hosting all manner of celebrities, and I am glad to see footballers also taking note of our activities. Abud becomes the second Harambee Stars player to visit us after Erambo. His gesture means a lot to the kids. They need food to keep training and perfecting their dancing moves, while the other essentials will go a long way in ensuring their comfort. We thank Mozzart Bet for giving back to society through football,” said John.