Tackle Interview
The power of football goes far beyond the pitch, and Tackle is using this universal sport to address some of Africa’s most pressing health challenges. This unique organization merges the love of the game with vital HIV education, reaching thousands of young people across the continent.
Find out how they are leveraging the beautiful game to make a difference in communities that need it most.
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Want to support Tackle? https://tackleafrica.org/
July 30, 2024
Tackle is Transforming Football Into a Tool for Health
#641 Great.com Talks With... Tackle
Tackle, formerly known as TackleAfrica, is not your typical football organization. While the sport remains at the core of their mission, their work extends far beyond teaching dribbling skills or scoring goals. Since its inception, Tackle has been harnessing the universal appeal of football to deliver life-saving sexual health education across Africa, focusing on HIV prevention and awareness.
Today, we talked with Charlie Gamble, the CEO, and Patricia Peace, the Project Officer in Uganda of Tackle about how they are addressing the HIV epidemic in Africa by taking the game beyond the stadiums and into communities where education is desperately needed.
Kicking Off Change Across Africa
The organization was founded with a clear mission: to use football as a tool to engage young people in conversations about sexual health in a way that is both effective and culturally relevant. By training local coaches to deliver fun, interactive sessions, Tackle ensures that the messages resonate with young players, helping them make informed choices about their health.
The organization's approach is as innovative as it is impactful. They integrate HIV education directly into football drills and exercises, creating a learning environment that feels natural and engaging for the participants.
For example, a simple passing drill might be used to teach the importance of staying protected in relationships, while a shooting exercise could emphasize the need for regular health check-ups. By connecting these vital lessons with the sport that so many love, Tackle ensures that the messages stick long after the final whistle blows.
The organization’s efforts are not limited to the football field. They work closely with local health services, ensuring that young people have access to the resources they need, whether it's HIV testing, counseling, or treatment. This holistic approach not only educates but also empowers individuals to take control of their health.
Tackle’s work is making a significant impact across Africa. The combination of football and health education is a game-changer, breaking down stigmas and encouraging open conversations about sexual health in communities where these discussions are often taboo.
By using football as a medium for change, Tackle is transforming lives, one kick at a time. They are proving that with the right approach, even the world’s biggest challenges can be tackled head-on.
Want to know more about them? Make sure to read their stories, as every one of these stories matter, and to follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
