Using the Power of Football to Control HIV & AIDS

Project Overview

After the 2010 World Cup, Nike Red and King Baudouin Foundation (KBF) issued a call for proposals asking civil society organizations to use innovative approaches to mobilize youth and Key Populations (KP) against HIV and AIDS. RTY was the final winner for a two-year grant.

Implementation

RTY implemented the project in 8 out-of-school youth groups, 8 primary schools, and 8 secondary schools, reaching key populations and women prisoners.

Activities

• Organized inter-primary and inter-secondary school football matches
• Inter-out-of-school youth group matches (both male and female)
• Presented trophies and prizes to winners
• Supplied schools with footballs, sports jerseys, goal nets, and whistles

HIV Awareness Integration

• Sensitized youth about HIV and AIDS before each match
• Provided counseling and testing for HIV
• Referred those found HIV+ to health centres for specialized management
• Developed and distributed IEC messages in schools and public places
• Placed HIV awareness car stickers in taxis and buses