Oslo, 26 February – Right To Play Norway is proud to welcome Mushaga Bakenga as a new ambassador. With his powerful life story and long-standing football career, Bakenga brings a deep commitment that reflects the very core of Right To Play’s mission: every child’s right to play, even when life feels most uncertain.

Bakenga was born in Norway, but a family trip to his parents' home country of the Democratic Republic of the Congo turned into a nightmare when war broke out. The family was displaced for three years before they were finally able to return to Norway. During that time, football became a bright spot in an otherwise unpredictable everyday life. Whenever it was safe enough, he and other children would gather to play. They often made footballs from whatever they could find, rags, plastic, or other materials they could shape. If they managed to get hold of a balloon to give their “ball” some bounce, it was a moment of great joy.

In the midst of the uncertainty, football created a sense of community, normality, and hope.

Growing up back in Norway marked the beginning of a football journey that would take him to both national and international arenas. Through sport, he found a sense of community, achievement, and new opportunities, experiences that today are reflected in his commitment to children and young people in vulnerable situations.

“I chose to become an ambassador for Right To Play because of the values they stand for, and especially their work to support children affected by war and conflict around the world. Together with Right To Play, I hope to contribute to a better world,” says Mushaga Bakenga.

Through a professional career in Norwegian and international football, Bakenga has experienced how sport can build bridges across language, culture, and background. For children on the move or in vulnerable life situations, play and physical activity are more than just leisure, they become a space for safety, learning, and belonging.

Right To Play is an international organization that uses play as a method to protect, educate, and empower children in some of the world’s most vulnerable communities. Bakenga’s own story offers a powerful and important perspective on why this work matters.

“We are incredibly pleased to have Mushaga join our team. His story, both as a refugee and as a professional athlete, brings a unique voice to our work for children’s rights. From his own experience, he understands the difference that community and activity can make in a child’s life,” says Elin Margrethe Tvedt, National Director of Right To Play Norway.

As an ambassador, Bakenga will help raise awareness of Right To Play’s work, participate in events, and serve as a strong advocate for children’s right to play and learn.

Mushaga Bakenga is more than a football player. He is a role model who demonstrates what inclusion and commitment look like in practice.