It’s a sunny winter afternoon at Lesedi Cultural Village in South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind, where to the sound of drums, marimbas and vuvuzelas, the Nandocas invitation side joined by United Against Malaria David Kyne from New York warm up to take on the Lesedi players in the 2011 UAM football challenge.

As part of all United Against Malaria Kingsley Holgate led expeditions across Africa, football matches like these have been played across the continent. “Sometimes there’s not even a field” says Kingsley with a grin. The expedition team clear a piece of bush, there’s a bicycle for the Man of the Match and a UAM trophy for the winning team. There’s always great excitement as we replace the village ball made of old plastic bags tied together with twine, with a brand new football. It’s all about using the wonderful game of football to spread the message about malaria prevention.

Today’s no exception and after 60 minutes of hard play with commentary in English and Zulu from the Land Rover loud speakers, the Lesedi team holds up the UAM floating trophy presented by Nandos founder Robert Brozin. CEO of Nandos South Africa, Noel Doyle is chosen as Man of the Match.

The Journey to Juba expedition Land Rovers will leave tomorrow morning but first there’s tonight’s UAM Cultural Festival. It’s happening in the giant Ngoma Hut and one can feel the excitement in the air.

Will keep you posted.