Sport for Change – Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls
- AAF Kenya
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 29
At Africa Advocacy Foundation Kenya, we use the power of sport and physical activity to
create safe and equal opportunities for young people. In partnership with schools across
Western Kenya and the Nyanza Region, we combine football, netball, and structured
dialogue to promote respect, positive masculinity, and the prevention of violence against
women and girls (VAWG).
Football & Netball with Purpose
We support school teams in football and netball, giving both girls and boys the chance to
play, lead, and grow together. These sessions are designed to break down gender
stereotypes and help young people learn teamwork, fairness, and respect on and off the
field.
Play and Talk Sessions
Before every sports or PE session, trained teachers and peer leaders run structured
dialogue sessions. These short discussions create a safe space for students to explore key
issues, including:
• Healthy relationships
• Respect and equality
• Reporting abuse safely
• Children’s rights and responsibilities
• Positive masculinity
By linking dialogue with play, we make learning active, engaging, and memorable.
Girls’ Safe Spaces & Self-Defence
In village schools, we deliver safe space programmes for girls. These include self-defence,
dance, and group activities that build:
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Teamwork and leadership
• Practical safety skills
• Informal peer support networks
These spaces allow girls to participate freely, form friendships, and build solidarity that
extends beyond school grounds.
Safeguarding Teachers & Coaches
We run a tailored safeguarding programme for PE teachers and sports coaches. Training
equips them to:
• Spot early signs of abuse or neglect
• Respond safely and appropriately to disclosures
• Create inclusive and respectful sports environments
• Ensure girls feel safe and protected in all activities
This ensures schools are not only promoting sport but also protecting the wellbeing of
every child.
Our Impact
Through our sport and safeguarding initiatives, we are:
• Increasing girls’ participation and leadership in school sport.
• Shifting boys’ attitudes towards respect and positive masculinity.
• Strengthening informal support networks for girls.
• Creating safer, more inclusive schools in the Nyanza Region.
Get Involved
Together, we can harness the energy of sport to end violence against women and girls.
Email: info@africadvocacy.org
