THE Ndondo Cup 2024 in Dodoma, which kicked off on September 8, showcases the U.S. Government’s commitment to combining sports with vital health initiatives aimed at combating HIV and promoting immunization among Tanzania’s youth.

Led by USAID and PEPFAR through the Breakthrough ACTION project, this grassroots soccer tournament transcends traditional sports events, serving as a powerful platform for health education and community engagement. Building on past successes in various regions where tens of thousands accessed essential health services, this year’s tournament amplifies its outreach through the ‘SITETEREKI’ youth campaign and the ‘Kuwa Bingwa’ immunization initiative.

Moses Bateganya from USAID emphasized the synergy between sports and health, stating, “We are committed to pioneering innovative approaches that deliver tangible health outcomes. We believe that sports can be a powerful force for promoting behavior change and improving access to services.

” Evangelina Chihoma of PEPFAR highlighted the urgency of targeting youth, referencing the Tanzania HIV Indicator Survey: “Engaging young people through initiatives like the Ndondo Cup is a vital strategy for reaching our goals.” 

This innovative approach empowers participants, like 19-year-old Amani, who expressed, “This tournament opened my eyes to the importance of knowing my HIV status.” As the Ndondo Cup expands into new regions, it stands as a testament to the U.S. Government’s belief in the power of sports to enact societal change and advance public health in Tanzania.