For the first time, Bangladesh has become part of the FIFA Foundation Community Program, as OBHIZATRIK Foundation launched its new initiative, “Playing for Peace: Empowering Dreams through Soccer”, in Dhaka on Tuesday.
The soft launch took place at the Conference Hall of the District Commissioner’s Office, where Deputy Commissioner and District Magistrate of Dhaka, Tanvir Ahmed, inaugurated the program as the chief guest. Also present were Assistant Commissioner and Executive Magistrate Razia Sultana and OBHIZATRIK Founder & President Ahmed Imtiaz Jami.
Through this two-year program, OBHIZATRIK Foundation aims to reach over 1,000 children from underprivileged communities in Dhaka, offering football training, tournaments, and educational workshops.
The initiative is part of the FIFA Foundation’s global commitment to using sport as a tool for social development, already active in 57 countries — with Bangladesh now joining the list for the first time.
Ahmed Imtiaz Jami expressed his pride in bringing the program to Bangladesh: “It is a matter of great honour for us to be partnering with FIFA Foundation. Sports can create harmony, so let’s play football, let’s play for peace.”
DC Tanvir Ahmed praised the initiative, stating, “I am proud to see OBHIZATRIK Foundation and FIFA Foundation coming together to transform a playground into a platform for peace.”
Assistant Commissioner Razia Sultana echoed the sentiment, saying, “I truly believe ‘Playing for Peace’ can bring lasting social impact to underprivileged communities.”
Md. Badiuzzaman Al-Amin, Founder & Secretary of the Bangladesh Para Football Federation, also welcomed the program’s inclusive vision: “In underprivileged communities, professional sports training is rare — especially for disabled children. We’re glad OBHIZATRIK is making it possible.”
With FIFA’s backing and local partnerships, the initiative marks a significant milestone in using football as a vehicle for social change in Bangladesh.
