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We are now providing FREE weekly futsal sessions to kids in Ebeye. But what is Ebeye and why is it such a win that young people there now have access to a structured soccer program?

Thanks to our fundraising efforts we’ve been able to send soccer equipment to Ebeye for the first time; including futsal goals and balls.

_{MISF Vice-President, Divine Waiti leads the stretch for the youngsters as they warm-up}

Where is Ebeye?
Ebeye forms part of Kwajalein which is the second most populated island in the Marshall Islands. Kwajalein is famous for hosting a US military facility. Ebeye itself is just a small strip of land that measures only 0.1 square miles.

Despite that it is home to just over 8,000 people With a population density of 40,000 per sq./mile this makes Ebeye the 6th most densely population island in the world.

But why is there so many people there? The population swelled due to the nuclear testing that took place in the 50’s which forced residents from Bikini and Enewetak Atoll’s to relocate. These people had always assumed this would be a short-term move.

As you can imagine, in such a densely populated space living conditions are a challenge. Many houses don’t have running water and electricity is unreliable. Sewage treatment and power systems are also in need of maintenance.

Lack of opportunities for kids! Over 50% of the population is under the age of 18 however there aren’t enough school spaces for all of them – meaning families often have to choose which children can attend school.

Climate change. As a low-lying island Ebeye is the most at-risk island. If global temperatures continue as they are, it risks being permanently flooded by rising sea levels.

_{The kids enjoying the practice during a soccer clinic on Ebeye.}

We hope that these weekly soccer clinics will provide more opportunities for young people in Ebeye and perhaps we’ll even find some talented players too.

Thanks to all of our generous sponsors that enable us to undertake projects such as this one. In particular we would like to thank the Australian Embassy, Majuro for providing the DAP (Direct Aid Programme) Assistance that have enabled us to hold these sessions.