One Continent, One Destiny

In October 2004, soon after the summer heat let up and classes resumed throughout Egypt, a diverse group of 88 young men squared off in a thrilling two-day football tournament in Cairo. Mostly university students, plus a few recent graduates, they fielded teams representing 11 different African countries. The competition showcased some impressive footwork, with a squad of Ghanaians ultimately emerging as the victors. But more importantly, it served as an object lesson in cultural exchange: the players maintained their national identities while engaging in a collective enterprise. In case anyone missed the point, the tournament’s theme spelled it out: “One Continent, One Destiny.”