Head in the Game
A project managed by Tackle Africa
Founded in 2002, Tackle Africa is an NGO that uses sport, and football in particular, as a tool for raising awareness of sexual health issues, such as STDs, HIV/AIDS, unwanted pregnancies and female genital mutilation.
The project aims at providing mental health training and follow-up through football sessions and workshops targeted at high-risk key population (YKP) who are more likely to be concerned by HIV/SRHR issues. The total cost of the project is €30K.
Context
The COVID-19 pandemic had severally impacted young people in Ivory Coast with a significant increase in global youth unemployment rate. c.38% of businesses had to cease operations (2.4% permanently and 35.3% temporarily).
All these issues have a non-negligeable impact on youth mental health and the existing stigma around HIV and SRHR prevent them to access the relevant support services.
Objectives
- Increase the psychosocial and clinical support to young high-risk key populations (YKP)
- Increase the support peer networks of YKP
- Increase understanding and recognition of self-stigma and wider wellbeing issues
- Advocate for a wider provision of mental health services for YKP and push for evidence-based integration of mental health into services provided within health facilities
Activities
- Mental health first aid training and curriculum design
- Football training and tournament
- Football sessions with pitch-side counselling
- Mental health & YKP workshops
Impacts
- 225 beneficiaries, notably high-risk YKP affected by HIV/SRHR issues
- Increased knowledge and awareness of mental health issue
- Improve attitudes and change behaviors
Laureate of the SMHSC programme 2021 edition, led by AFD, FIFA and GIZ.
Photo credits: Tackle Africa
Location
Côte d’Ivoire
Project led by
Tackle Africa
Start date
Date to be defined
Project status
Project already funded
Sustainable development goals
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