Kato twins: two dreams, one destiny!
Sometimes, the heroes of the future are just a few meters from the sidelines—alert, ready, and hearts full of hope.
While the spotlights of the eighth edition of the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 illuminate the iconic Mandela National Stadium, other, subtler lights shine backstage.
Among them stand out Davis and Darren Kato, 17-year-old Ugandan twins who have earned a special place in the heart of African football—not as stars on the pitch, but as ball boys, with the same thirst for victory and hope as those playing under the world’s gaze.
Both had the privilege of being flag bearers in the opening match between Uganda and Algeria.
From the backyard in Kampala
Born and raised in Kampala, the Kato brothers grew up in perfect harmony both on and off the field.
Their passion for football began early, fueled by afternoons watching their father watch games on TV and family games in their backyard.
“Our love for football started from watching our dad watch matches. We’d spend hours imitating the celebrations and skills of our idols,” recalls Darren, with a shy but proud smile.
By the age of five, they were already training together at Focus Football Academy in Naalya. Their parents’ dedication was crucial: their father was their first coach, and their mother invested in sessions at the primary school club.
Their talent, soon evident, was polished at the Edgars Youth Programme (EYP), an institution that has become a reference in youth football development in Uganda, believing in big dreams: to train not just athletes, but citizens prepared for life.
Same positions, one instinct
On the field, the twins are like mirrors: Davis prefers the left, Darren the right.
“We’ve always loved dribbling and showing off our skills. Playing on opposite wings lets us coordinate attacks better and exchange passes with ease,” explains Darren.
This connection—dubbed by friends as “twin chemistry”—makes the Kato brothers almost unstoppable when playing together. “We often don’t need to speak to understand each other. It’s natural,” says Davis, laughing.
A dream internship at CHAN 2024
CHAN 2024, co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, is more than a tournament. It’s a celebration of the diversity and opportunities of African football.
Being ball boys in this setting was a privilege the brothers embraced with enthusiasm and discipline.
“We were so excited. We couldn’t miss the chance to see the national team play at Mandela Stadium—and maybe pick up a few tricks,” reveals Davis.
The preparation was intense. They learned how to position the countries’ flags, march onto the field, and act with precision during the games. Every gesture was rehearsed, every movement filled with meaning.
“Being so close to our idols changed the way we see football. We saw the intensity, the discipline, and gained even more respect for the sport,” says Darren.
Life lessons and dreams without limits
Watching teams like South Africa, Algeria, Niger, Guinea, and Uganda up close was a transformative experience.
“We learned that success isn’t just about talent. You need discipline, teamwork, and preparation,” shares Darren, echoing EYP’s philosophy.
Among their idols, Davis highlights Allan Okello for his vision and passing quality. Darren points to Abdennour Behocini, for his technique and commitment on the pitch.
Off the field, training at the Edgars Youth Programme continues daily during the holidays, with exercises, discussions, and sharing of experiences.
The dream? To play together professionally, maybe in the Premier League, inspired by famous twins like Rafael and Fábio, former Manchester United players.
“It would be amazing to play together. But even if we’re on different teams, we know our bond will always be there,” says Davis.
Despite their talent and ambition, Davis and Darren haven’t forgotten their roots or the importance of education.
They are examples of how it’s possible to balance a sporting career and academic studies—and they argue that young people should never give up their education.
“Work for your dream. If you want it, chase it. But don’t neglect your studies while you have the chance,” advises Darren, in a message that echoes for all who dream big.
Heroes of tomorrow
For the Kato twins, being ball boys at CHAN 2024 is more than a role: it was a chance to experience the greatness of African football up close, absorb lessons, and fuel their dreams. “It gave us pride, responsibility, and a unique opportunity to grow,” says Darren.
Between exchanged passes, knowing smiles, and behind-the-scenes stories (like their trick of confusing opponents by being twins!), Davis and Darren show that in football and in life, there are no small roles.
There are big dreams—and the courage to make them a reality, step by step.
