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NYDA Peace Soccer Tournament

Uniting Youth, Inspiring Peace, Empowering Communities

About the tournament

The NYDA Peace Soccer Tournament is more than just an annual sporting event; it is a vibrant movement for peace, social cohesion and local development. Born out of the need for healing and rebuilding following the Anglophone crisis, the tournament has become a powerful symbol of hope and unity for the people of Nyasoso and the surrounding communities.

Each year, hundreds of young people come together to compete in this community-centred football championship. It is more than just a game — the tournament provides a platform for advocating peace, encouraging inclusive engagement, and promoting healthy living. Through sport, we promote dialogue, overcome divisions, and build stronger bonds that pave the way for lasting reconciliation.

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Promoting gender equality

In 2022, the NYDA Peace Soccer Tournament made history by launching its inaugural female edition, a significant move toward promoting gender equality and empowering young women through sport. This move breaks down cultural barriers and reaffirms NYDA’s commitment to providing equal opportunities for all.

Key elements include:

Youth engagement: Over 600 young participants compete and connect through sportsmanship.
Male and female teams: We feature both men’s and women’s teams to ensure diverse and inclusive participation.
Peace Messaging: On-the-ground and online advocacy campaigns to promote non-violence and reconciliation.
Health & Wellness: Free health screenings and wellness education for young people and community members.
Event innovations: FIFA Champions League-style celebrations to elevate the tournament experience.

What’s next?

Future editions will extend into neighbouring villages, transforming the tournament into a regional peace league. This expansion will:

Deepen inter-community relationships
Foster economic and social development
Multiply the reach of our peacebuilding and youth empowerment efforts

GET INVOLVED

Join us in using football to build bridges, break barriers, and create lasting peace.

DONATE TODAY

Support us in transforming the NYDA Peace Soccer Tournament into a platform that promotes peacebuilding, empowers young people, and fosters social cohesion within vulnerable communities.

VOLUNTEER

By volunteering your time, energy and talents, you help uplift communities, empower young people and drive meaningful change. Join NYDA as a volunteer and take part in bold, youth-led initiatives.