The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has made a monumental step by entering a partnership with the United Nations to support the initiative dubbed Football for the Goals. In this partnership, CAF is advocating for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through sport, with the objective of making an impact in Africa.
Key Takeaways:
As CAF President Patrice Motsepe expressed the vision and mission of the organization, it blends football and social and economic growth for its members. He noted:
“We will support the United Nations to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by creating opportunities for young and women and helping in the development of this great continent and not forgetting the world.”
The strategy for CAF will include applying SDG oriented measures into their existing youth football development programs and taking advantage of the popularity of football in addressing various issues including poverty and access to education. It is composed of 54 countries in Africa which gives it an advantage to reach out to the people and campaign
Robert Skinner UN’s Deputy Director stated the global role of football in addressing social problems and expressed delight at working with CAF when he said,
“I am convinced that football can bring positive changes and that is why we look forward to working with CAF to promote the SDG agenda and bring about transformation in the African communities.”
The African Schools Football Championship is one good illustration of how CAF strives for the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The program has positively impacted over 800,000 boys and girls in 44 countries, championing gender equity and promoting health through school football. By offering the same purse and opportunities to girls and boys, CAF is now taking further steps on the road to the SDGs.
First of all, the collaboration with the UN for the purposes of promoting the “Football for the Goals” initiative is another substantial contribution in using football as a tool to fight social vices in Africa.
Through its grassroots programmes, youth developmental activities and such a competition as the African Schools Football Championship, CAF strives to bring about positive changes and sustainable development on the continent.