Kicking Off Change: Girls’ Soccer Fun Day and Cup Tournament to Tackle GBVF

Gender-Based Violence and Femicide (GBVF) and violence against children are deeply intertwined issues that demand urgent attention. Recognizing this, Masimanyane Women’s Rights International is thrilled to announce the launch of the Ibhola Ekhatywayo Ngamantombazana (Girls’ Soccer) project, a dynamic initiative that harnesses the power of girls’ soccer to combat GBVF and build stronger, more cohesive communities.

This exciting project, aligned with South Africa’s Pillar 2 of the National Strategic Plan on GBVF, isn’t just about playing soccer—it’s about transforming lives. By creating a girls’ soccer league, Masimanyane is providing a healing incubator for young stars of all genders and orientations.
This ground-breaking initiative, sponsored by the Royal Norwegian Embassy in South Africa, is set to break barriers, offering young women in Buffalo City the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive in a sporting world often dominated by men.

“Imagine young women honing their soccer skills, discovering their passion for sports, and leading healthier, more balanced lives, unafraid and confident to take to the soccer field as equals,” says Dr Leslely-Ann Foster, Executive Director of Masimanyane Women’s Rights International. “The Ibhola Ekhatywayo Ngamantombazana project is more than a soccer program; it’s a movement towards equality, empowerment, and positive change.”

The objectives for the soccer day are to make soccer more accessible to young girls, challenge and change unhealthy norms and attitudes in young boys, and empower young girls to participate fully in an internationally recognized sport. Additionally, the event aims to develop relevant knowledge, skills, and tools to reduce levels of rape, domestic violence, and femicide in local communities, uncover skills that could generate financial income, and create safe spaces for engaging in healthy, purposeful sporting activities.

Event Details:
Date: 09 August 2024
Venue: Ebenezer Majombozi High School in Buffalo Flats, East London, South Africa

Masimanyane invites community members, stakeholders, and supporters to join us in this initiative to foster a safer, more cohesive society through the power of girls’ soccer. Together, we can create an environment where young women thrive, gain valuable skills, and contribute to the prevention of GBVF.

About Masimanyane Women’s Rights International:
Masimanyane Women’s Rights International is committed to advocating for the rights of women and girls, working towards a society free of gender-based violence and inequality. Through various programs and initiatives, we strive to empower women and foster social change.

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Author: Nomsa Mdhluli from Tishala Communications on behalf of Masimanyane Women’s Rights International.