Rooney, Sheringham to play in famine appeal match
By Norman S. Miwambo
8th Aug 2011: As the food crisis in East Africa becomes increasingly desperate, a football match involving football stars and celebrities will help to raise the urgently needed funds.
The game between Celtic Legends and Manchester United Legends will be shown live on British television channel ITV4 next Tuesday. It was put together by aid agency Oxfam GB and Kick-off is scheduled for 7:45pm. “…All proceeds will go to our East Africa appeal and viewers will be encouraged to text donations throughout the game”, said Cathy Ferrier, Oxfam’s Fundraising Director.
According to the UN’s Food Security and Nutrition Analysis Unit (FSNAU), millions of people are facing the most awful famine in 60 years in the Horn of Africa; especially Somalia. Other East African countries also continue to face the certainty of hunger.
Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Southern Sudan and Djibouti are among the other countries threatened by starvation in the region. In Uganda, Karamoja is the place that is facing the most risk. Recently, the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organisation [FAO] and other international aid agencies warned that nearly two million people were at risk of starvation in Karamoja.
Football legends like former Ireland international and Manchester United star Roy Keane, Teddy Sheringham and Henrik Larsson will take to the pitch alongside other celebrities like two-time IBF and IBO light welterweight boxing champion Ricky Hatton.
Others who are scheduled to make an appearance include Patrick Kielty, a comedian and television personality from Northern Ireland, Billy Connolly, another comedian, Wayne Rooney of Manchester United, and rock legend Rod Stewart.
Oxfam’s Fundraising Director said many people should watch the match so that more money is raised. “…We want as many people as possible to watch the match so we can raise lots of money for East Africa. So tune in, and tell your friends too. Thank you for all your support for our East Africa appeal. Together we can help to save lives”, Ferrier said.
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