Activists promote children’s sports, women empowerment

ZANZIBAR: CHILDREN’S Rights activists organised a sports bonanza to celebrate the International Day of the African Child (DAC), emphasising the importance of sports for children’s health and women’s empowerment.

Director of the Tanzania Women Media Association (TAMWA) – Zanzibar, Mzuri Issa, highlighted the benefits of sports in reducing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and alleviating stress, particularly encouraging women’s participation.

“We organised this sports event to promote physical activity among children, girls and women, addressing the disparity in sports participation highlighted by recent surveys,” Dr Mzuri stated during the bonanza at Mnazi Mmoja playground over the weekend.

Aligned with the African Union’s theme for the 2024 Day of the African Child, “Education for all Children in Africa: The Time is Now,” the event underscored the need for inclusive and quality education systems across the continent.

The International Day of the African Child focuses on challenges facing children in Africa, including limited playtime and opportunities, especially for girls hindered by cultural biases against sports participation.

Mzuri also emphasised healthy lifestyles through balanced nutrition and regular exercise for overall well-being.

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Wanu Ali Makame, Curriculum and Equipment Manager at the Zanzibar Institute of Education, encouraged children of all genders to enjoy sports safely, respecting cultural norms.

“Children can play and exercise within cultural boundaries. Parents should support their daughters’ participation in sports,” she affirmed.

Hija Mohammed Ramadhan from the German International Cooperation (GIZ) highlighted the ‘Women and Development’ project’s role in enhancing children’s health, combating sexual violence and promoting gender equality through sports.

Khairat Haji Ali, Women and Sports Project Coordinator at TAMWA-Zanzibar, emphasised the positive impact of sports on female students’ health and academic performance.

Participants, including 150 students from secondary and primary schools in Unguja, praised the event for promoting socialisation and sending a message to parents about the importance of children’s participation in sports.

The sports bonanza received support from various organisations including the Department of Sports – Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, Zanzibar Female Lawyers Association (ZAFELA), GIZ and the Centre for Youth Debates (CYD).