OVERVIEW
In May 2011 history was made when Drake University and Mexico CONADEIP Universities American football teams played the first college game ever on the African continent, fulfilling a dream of Coach Chris Creighton. With the support, spirit and unyielding efforts of a visionary leadership team, the Global Kilimanjaro Bowl accomplished every element of its planned mission; and more.
VISION
How can the Global Kilimanjaro Bowl missions be fulfilled again, amplified and documented through a return trip to Tanzania in 2027 involving some of the original 198 travelers, along with new student-athletes, coaches, families and adventurers?
MISSION
To demonstrate the value of living the KILELENI Spirit every day. To the Summit!
The 2011 Kili Bowl was built around three core elements that reflected Coach Creighton’s “Why”:
- Sport Drake and CONADEIP Mexico played an American football game in Arusha in front of 11,000+ fans-in the same stadium where Tanzania first raised its flag of independence in 1971. The 2027 trip will recognize and further promote the global growth of football in Africa through youth clinics, combines, Flag football and showcase events.
- Humanity Coach wanted his Drake players to see real poverty and to help Tanzanian communities. The travelers spent three days serving as American/Mexican work teams in schools and orphanages. In 2027 the travelers will return to serve and build on the long-term impact from 2011.
- Adventure The previous time a team of 128 from 3 uniquely different nations attempted to summit Mt. Kilimanjaro (19,341 ft). 121 reached the summit. In 2027, the new Team KILELENI will have the option to journey to the top of Africa with the same passion and determination, To the Summit.
IMPACT OF THE GLOBAL REUNION
The 2027 reunion will capture Africa’s stunning natural wonders, such as the expansive savannah, lush forests, and the 19,341′ Mt. Kilimanjaro. Participants may choose their experiences, such as hiking to the summit, or a multi-day safari adventure. Thousands of dedicated human efforts, guided by divine timing, created life-changing journeys in 2011. The same spirit will inspire 2027, with the mission to record compelling stories on film, thereby spreading the powerful meaning of the Swahili word “KILELENI” … To the Summit!.
Announcement – May 29, 2025, 14 years after we all stood atop Mt. Kilimanjaro!
The two best shorter videos:
Global Football CBS Kilimanjaro Bowl Promo (1:56)
Tupande Kileleni (3:55)
