Erick Juma Oduor believed in what he started right from the beginning. Initially, he did most things by himself, sometimes with the help of mutual friends who had faced the same challenges.

On the outside, people only see the celebrations and a community coming together for a shared purpose. What the league’s administration has to deal with goes far beyond the pitch and the weekend. The league committee, which is mostly made up of volunteers and referees, has to meet throughout the week to handle common issues. The league faces occasional disciplinary problems among players, fans, and teams. Furthermore, the introduction of strict new FKF rules means the league must strengthen its medical department. This has been a constant concern because getting medical personnel and equipment is expensive. In most circumstances, Totti is always available to help raise donations for seriously injured players.

A local initiative that brings people together naturally attracts politicians. “From the onset, I saw what politicians did in this community, appearing during peak moments with one-time handouts,” Totti reflects. “Whenever they are around, it’s always chaotic.” To control this influx, Totti put a measure in place: politicians must sponsor a team or a player’s tuition in some way. This has been effective so far, but it also creates more work. He has to ensure that the donations coming in through the teams are used properly.

The central role of the Olympic School pitch, which the league frequently uses, extends its reach deep into the community. Parents and siblings come out to watch the games. A few years ago, the area around the institution was blocked off from outsiders. Negative incidents used to happen because the compound was hidden and obscure. Today, the school hosts public games and has two of the best basketball courts for all ages. The Interbase League even stores its matchday chairs inside the school principal’s compound.

This drives motivation and creates a true sense of belonging.

Most organizations in Kibera receive some kind of funding to steer their growth. However, there is a completely different struggle to starting a project that has never been done before without any external assistance.

Over the past few years, Totti has been intentional in seeking collaborations that have enhanced the dignity of the league. The introduction of the women’s and teens’ leagues was a major milestone in a community where there is usually less space for them. A collaboration with the community cornerstone organization, CFK, has further cemented the league's status in the area.

The ambition of Interbase is clear from the professional players who occasionally grace the matches. Names like Kevin Wangaya, Byron Omondi, Erambo, and Diarra are among them. Their appearances, mostly during their off-season, bring positive energy to the league. They show young kids that it is possible to play at the highest level, no matter where you come from.

Totti points out that the margins are incredibly thin, and many factors come into play when trying to develop a quality player both on and off the pitch.

“The challenge now is holding the line and moving forward. How can the league be a conduit for not just football, but also a tool for healing for kids and young men who face daily struggles beyond the pitch?”

Addressing determinants like diet, mental wellness, and regular exercise forms his long-term ambition. 

“The joy comes when things are balanced. I like watching good football where the player is fully focused and able to deliver their best - that is how further opportunities come. How do we find the best young players, mentor them, and become a feeder academy and league for the big leagues? It is an ambitious shot.”

That is the ultimate goal of the league: a space where people don’t just watch football, but also care about the whole person.

In a world where the opportunity to play is becoming scarce and expensive, highlighting community spaces is vital. Growing up and seeing these spaces change sparks a conversation about identity and belonging. The very spaces that created past stars are now apartments, but new grounds are coming up to elevate a new generation of talent.