Sport as a Catalyst for International Development

  • U.S. Olympic soccer star Abby Wambach talks about the important role that sport plays in development programs for women and girls around the world. Click the "Learn More" link to view the video.

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  • NBA and USAID Join to Launch 'Live, Learn and Play' Program in Senegal

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Sport for Development: Abby Wambach
Sport for Development: Abby Wambach
In The Arena: Sports as a Catalyst for International Development
In The Arena: Sports as a Catalyst for International Development
Soccer Helps Youth Promote Peace in Kenya
Soccer Helps Youth Promote Peace in Kenya

Sport has the power to change the world.
It has the power to unite in a way that little else does.
It speaks to youth in a language they can understand.
Sport can create hope where once there was only despair.
It is more powerful than governments in breaking down racial barriers.
It laughs in the face of all types of discrimination.
- Nelson Mandela

Young participant in the USAID-supported Mundialito de Barrio sports for development program.
During January-March 2012, the USAID-supported Mundialito de Barrio sports for development program engaged 6,000 youth in 3,500 soccer matches. Participating youth received training in leadership skills and values.
USAID/Panama

Governments and private organizations have long been using sport as a tool in global development and humanitarian aid because of its ability to transform lives in unique and powerful ways. In fact, there are few areas in development where sport cannot be used as a platform to strengthen communities and improve lives.

At the field level, numerous programs have been harnessing the power of sport to advance shared objectives around global health, nutrition, education, peacekeeping and gender equality. The success of these efforts is bringing unprecedented focus, coordination and strategic thinking to the issue.

USAID is proud of our work with our development partners around the world to advance our common objectives through sport.

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