At DBA Africa, we believe sport can transform lives, but only when children are safe, supported and valued. That is why child protection and safeguarding are at the heart of everything we do. Parents who entrust their children to DBA can be confident that their sons and daughters are well looked after on and off the field.

Unfortunately, safeguarding in sport is still a major gap in Kenya and across Africa. Research by UNICEF and partners shows that children in sub-Saharan Africa face high risks of violence, with studies estimating that up to 70% experience some form of abuse before age 18. Within sport, the IOC has reported that one in three young athletes worldwide experiences psychological abuse, and more than 10% face sexual harassment or abuse before turning 18. Very few federations in Kenya have publicly available safeguarding or athlete welfare frameworks, leaving thousands of children vulnerable. DBA is addressing this gap by setting new standards of care and accountability.

Our Safeguarding Promise

Every child has the right to play and grow in a safe environment. At DBA, we:

• Train all coaches and staff in safeguarding best practices.
• Provide safe, inclusive spaces for every boy and girl.
• Operate a zero-tolerance policy against abuse, neglect, or discrimination.
• Encourage open communication between athletes, coaches, and parents.

Safeguarding is not a policy on paper, it is a daily practice that guides how we coach, how we lead and how we care. You can read our full DBA Africa Safeguarding Policy which outlines the standards every coach, staff member and volunteer commits to.

How Our Pillars Strengthen Protection?

We ensure that we are changing lives in a secure, supportive environment. At DBA Africa Rugby Academy, safeguarding is part of our culture. Coaches are trained to recognise risks and act early, while children are encouraged to speak up and trust that their voices will be heard. Girls train in safe, inclusive spaces where they know they are respected and supported. Parents are engaged as partners, reinforcing the trust that underpins our programmes.

From the first touch of the ball at grassroots level to competitive fixtures, every step is safeguarded. Coaches and mentors are not only skilled in rugby but also in nurturing and protecting young athletes, ensuring growth, confidence and safety go hand in hand while building a community that safeguards together.

Beyond Rugby: Building Safe Futures
Across Africa, the absence of clear safeguarding frameworks in sport is leaving a dangerous gap. DBA is demonstrating what responsible practice looks like by embedding safeguarding checks at every level. Donors and partners who work with DBA can be assured that their support goes into a system that prioritises safety and integrity, raising the standard for child protection in sport in Kenya.

Safeguarding is not just about protection from harm. It is also about giving young people the tools to thrive. At DBA Africa, safeguarding also means teaching life skills that keep children safe beyond the pitch: respect, teamwork, confidence and leadership. Sport is a platform where young people learn to trust themselves and others all while knowing they are protected.

A Message to Parents

When you bring your child to DBA, you’re not just signing them up for rugby, you’re joining a community that puts children first. With every drill, every match, and every cheer from the sidelines, your child is in safe hands and on the path to a strong future.

“At DBA Rugby Academy, every child is safe, valued, and protected, on and off the pitch.”