The Ndondo Cup initiative more than just a football tournament

Dar es Salaam. The Ndondo Cup has this year evolved from a local football tournament into a crucial public health outreach event, facilitated by the collaborative efforts of the US Government (USG) through USAID and PEPFAR, alongside the Breakthrough ACTION project.

 This initiative partnered with the Ministry of Health, the President's Office - Regional Administration and Local Government (PO-RALG), as well as Ndondo Cup organizers and sponsors. As young men and boys cheered for their favorite teams, they gained access to essential HIV and vaccination services.

Engaging young men and boys aged 15-24 in health services—particularly HIV testing and prevention—has historically posed challenges.

Recognizing this need, Breakthrough ACTION identified the Ndondo Cup as an ideal platform to reach this demographic in an environment that resonates with their interests.

At the tournament in Dar es Salaam, comprehensive HIV testing and vaccination services were provided by MDH and EpiC, ensuring that these critical resources were made accessible and discreetly available.

The initiative linked the excitement of sports with vital discussions on HIV awareness and immunization, bridging national and community health promotion efforts.

During the tournament, which attracted over 70,000 attendees, nearly 10,000 youth accessed HIV testing and vaccinations. Additionally, nationwide outreach efforts reached more than 13 million people through radio and social media campaigns focused on HIV and vaccination awareness.

“The success of the Ndondo Cup tournament highlights the transformative impact of collaboration in advancing public health. Our combined efforts with the Government of Tanzania and U.S. Government service delivery partners, including MDH and EpiC, were instrumental in breaking down barriers to essential health services, particularly for men and youth,” said Waziri Nyoni, Chief of Party for the Breakthrough ACTION project in Tanzania.

By demonstrating how sports events can serve as powerful catalysts for health and well-being, the Ndondo Cup sets a new standard for public health improvement through community engagement. Through these innovative outreach efforts, USAID and PEPFAR are effectively meeting young people where they are, paving the way for a healthier future.