GBV given red card in awareness campaign aimed at schoolchildren
A soccer programme for schoolchildren aged 10 to 18, organised as part of East London’s Masimanyane Women’s Rights International’s Red Card Campaign, is being used to create a safe way for youth to learn about genderbased violence.
Partnering with the Norwegian embassy, the NPO welcomed SA Royal Norwegian ambassador Gjermund Saether for two days, on his first visit to Buffalo City.
Comprising eight girls’ teams and two boys’ teams, the group of 180 schoolchildren from BCM have been practising every week since March 1, culminating in the girls soccer tournament on Sunday in Scenery Park.
“The tournament was very well done. It was nice to see how much the girls enjoy playing football and being together,” Saether said.
“All countries have a problem with GBV, including Norway, but the numbers in SA are staggering.
“One must find different ways to deal with the problem. The main objective is to see if we can contribute to reducing sexual GBV.
“We have a great partner in Masimanyane in reaching communities.”
Former Banyana Banyana striker
Lelethu Nguta is heading the programme.
Masimanyane executive director Dr Lesley Ann Foster was excited about the collaboration and opportunity to expand the programme to other communities.
“Using soccer, we are able to demonstrate how GBV can be linked to every aspect of life.
“We will work with the young kids, coaches, referees and linesmen in bringing GBV awareness and education into all of those layers,” Foster said.
Masimanyane’s GBV prevention teams have also been holding workshops at the players’ schools across the metro.
“This is a community development programme. You will see leaders coming out of this.
“It’s important to work with young boys as well because we need to change their mindsets and attitudes towards young women, understanding the principles of respect and dignity for all.”
Everything from transport, kit and meals has been provided for.
Foster thanked Alderson’s Ambulances as the approved service provider for the campaign.
“This is taking children off the streets, giving them a purpose, and a sense of identity, it’s building their confidence, we are very excited.”