ZIFA and UNFPA Join Forces to Tackle Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment Through Football

In a groundbreaking move that merges the worlds of sport and social development, the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have signed a landmark Cooperation Agreement aimed at using football as a powerful platform to promote gender equality, youth empowerment, and sexual and reproductive health and rights across Zimbabwe.

The partnership, officially announced through a joint press release, outlines a strategic plan that focuses on advocacy and awareness campaigns targeting four critical development goals: zero preventable maternal deaths, zero unmet need for family planning, zero gender-based violence and harmful practices, and zero new HIV infections.

By leveraging the reach and influence of football — the world’s most popular sport — the two organisations aim to challenge harmful gender stereotypes, promote positive masculinity, and create an inclusive environment both within football and in communities at large.

Football as a Vehicle for Change

Speaking during the signing ceremony, ZIFA President Nqobile Magwizi underscored the transformative impact of the sport on society.
“Football has the power to change lives, shape values, and build stronger communities,” Magwizi said. “This partnership with UNFPA allows us to harness that power to promote positive behaviours and challenge harmful norms that hinder development and equality.”

With football deeply rooted in Zimbabwean culture and enjoyed by millions, ZIFA sees the sport as an ideal tool to engage young people, particularly around issues such as adolescent pregnancy, sexual health, and respectful relationships.

Empowering Youth Through Meaningful Dialogue

UNFPA Country Representative Miranda Tabifor highlighted the importance of the collaboration in driving forward the rights and well-being of women and youth.
“This partnership leverages football’s unifying power to amplify crucial messages about sexual and reproductive health, gender equality, and the well-being of Zimbabwe’s young people and women,” said Tabifor. “Together with ZIFA, we hope to raise awareness, inspire change, and protect the rights and well-being of all Zimbabweans.”

The partnership will see the rollout of community-based programs, school engagements, and football tournaments embedded with educational messaging. Football players, coaches, and officials will be trained as ambassadors for positive behaviour, modelling inclusive and respectful conduct both on and off the field.

Setting the Stage for a Healthier and More Equal Society

This new agreement is not just symbolic — it represents a proactive shift in how social issues can be addressed using unconventional platforms. By combining sport with health education and gender advocacy, ZIFA and UNFPA hope to make significant strides in addressing critical challenges that affect Zimbabwe’s future generations.

As this collaborative effort begins, both organisations are calling on communities, educators, and civil society to support and participate in the initiatives, reinforcing the idea that everyone has a role to play in creating a more equal, healthy, and inclusive Zimbabwe.

The ZIFA–UNFPA Cooperation Agreement is a bold step forward in redefining football not just as a sport, but as a catalyst for national transformation.