Day 6: Kicking Out Violence: How Community Football and Local Leaders are Tackling GBV

In the picturesque setting of Mendakwe village, a powerful grassroots movement is taking shape on the football field. The STOP GBV campaign has found an innovative way to address Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by harnessing the universal appeal of football. Two recent matches have brought the community together, not just for sport, but for a crucial cause.

Women Leading the Charge: Nyaboro Quarter Match

At Nyaboro quarter, an electrifying match took place between two formidable teams: the Women’s Empowerment Center and the Mendankwe Village Cultural Group. The air was thick with excitement as these women, ranging from young adults to grandmothers, took to the field.

Francisca, captain of the Cultural Group team, shared her thoughts: “Today, we’re not just playing football. We’re showing our community that women are strong, capable, and deserving of respect. Every goal we score is a statement against violence.”

The match was more than just a game. During halftime, facilitators from the STOP GBV campaign led interactive sessions on recognizing and preventing GBV. Spectators engaged in quizzes about domestic violence laws and healthy relationship practices.

Sarah, a player from the Women’s Empowerment Center, noted the impact: “After the game, many women approached us, sharing their stories and asking about resources. This match opened up conversations that were previously taboo.”

Youths Join the Fight: Akwomboh Quarter

The campaign’s reach extended to the younger generation with a special match organized for Youths at Akwomboh quarter. Boys and girls played side by side, embodying the spirit of gender equality from an early age.

Quarter head  explained the approach: “We’re not just teaching football skills. We’re instilling values of respect, consent, and non-violence. These Youths are the future, and they’re learning that real strength lies in treating everyone with dignity.”

During breaks, the Youths participated in role-playing exercises, acting out scenarios that addressed bullying, consent, and standing up against violence. The enthusiasm was palpable as young voices pledged to be “Champions Against Violence” both on and off the field.

Ten-year-old Akuma, one of the young players, shared her experience: “I learned that it’s okay to say ‘no’ if someone makes me uncomfortable, and that I should speak up if I see someone being bullied. I’m going to tell all my friends about this!”

Impact Beyond the Field

The ripple effects of these matches are already being felt throughout Mendakwe village. Local leaders report an increase in community discussions about GBV, and more people are seeking information about support services for survivors.

Quarterhead of the Nyaboro Quarter commented on the campaign’s impact: “Football has always brought our community together, but now it’s uniting us for an even greater purpose. We’re seeing a shift in attitudes, especially among our young people. This campaign is planting seeds of change that will grow for generations.”

Looking Ahead

The success of the Mendakwe village matches has inspired plans to expand the STOP GBV football campaign to neighboring communities. Organizers are also developing a toolkit to help other villages implement similar programs.

Campaign coordinator Cynthis reflects on the journey: “What we’ve witnessed in Mendakwe is just the beginning. By combining the joy of sport with crucial education on GBV, we’re creating a model for change that resonates deeply with our communities. Every match brings us one step closer to a violence-free society.”

As the sun sets on the football field in Mendakwe, it rises on a new era of awareness and action against GBV. Through the simple act of kicking a ball, this community is scoring decisive goals against violence, proving that grassroots efforts can indeed change the game.

Please Join us to help build Resilience for GBV Survivors via our Resilience Building Fundraising Campaign on Global Giving via this link https://www.globalgiving.org/projects/resilience-building-for-gbv-survivors/