In June 2016, Child Hug Uganda launched a new project to promote physical activity amongst children and young adults in Lira.
Engaging in sports contributes to physical fitness, mental well-being and social interaction. It is a great way for our youth to interact, bond and strengthen relationships within the community. Sport is about participation and inclusion, and stands for human values such as respect for the opponent, acceptance of rules, teamwork, non-violence, justice, and fairness. In 1978, the UNESCO therefore described sport and physical education as a “fundamental right for all”.
Sport plays a crucial role in social integration and economic development. The Sport for Development and Peace International Working Group sees most benefits of sport to be in:
- Individual development
- Health promotion and disease prevention
- Promotion of gender equality
- Social integration and the development of social capital
- Peace building and conflict prevention/resolution
- Post-disaster/trauma relief and normalisation of life
- Economic development
- Communication and social mobilization.
Our project was made possible through donations by an Australian friend, who visited CHU in spring of 2016. 24 young men (aged 19-30) and 7 young ladies (aged 16-23) signed up to practice ball games at Amuca primary school in the evening of every day. We have received a lot of positive feedback from the participants, and our team already had its first competitions against other teams in Lira. Gathering these young people together also enables us to send health messages and discuss community issues.
With your help, we hope to expand the project.
Child Hug Uganda 