General objective

To enhance community engagement and participation in the community-based sports programs that combat the effects and root causes of violence, hate and discrimination in Yemen.

Expected results

Increasing access to and uptake of community-based sports programs that combat the effects and root causes of hate and discrimination.

About the project

The war in Yemen has brought immense hardship, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, children, persons with disabilities and the marginalized groups (Muhamasheen). These vulnerable groups, experience discrimination based on multiple aspects such as gender, race, socioeconomic status, and disability.

According to the 2024 Humanitarian Needs Overview (HNO), approximately 80% of the 4.56 million displaced people in Yemen are women and children, with 26% of displaced households headed by women. In addition to roughly 3 million people of the marginalized groups (Muhamasheen), a Yemeni underclass, have endured centuries of discrimination, exploitation, and poverty. Conflict and displacement have exacerbated their situation, face heightened risks of GBV, child marriage, trafficking, beggary, child labor, and sexual exploitation and abuse due to limited access to basic services including education, healthcare, shelter, and meaningful work.

The proposed project “Promoting Inclusion and Social Development through Sports in Yemen” aimed at enhancing community engagement and participation in sports programs that combat the effects and root causes of violence, hate, and discrimination in Aden and Lahj governorates, Yemen.

Key activities include organizing football and sport events focusing on children and youth aged 10-24 years in 20 underserved areas, including 15 IDP camps and settlements. The project also will actively engaging community members to participate in sports events and awareness activities through existing community committees to drive impactful awareness activities about discrimination, hate, and promoting tolerance, diversity, and inclusivity within sports and community development plans.

Football serves as a central element of the project, utilized to engage children and youth in structured, inclusive activities. By organizing football leagues and events, the project aims to create a common ground for participants to interact positively, challenge stereotypes, and foster social cohesion. The social impact of project will contribute to a reduction in violence and discrimination by creating safe spaces for interaction and promoting tolerance through sports. The enhanced sports facilities and organized activities will improve accessibility, inclusivity, and community relations, fostering long-term social change and cohesion. Active community involvement will foster community ownership, and sustainability of these positive impacts, embedding anti-discrimination and inclusive practices within local sports and community development plans.

Costs of action

60,000 USD

Beneficiaries

The project expects to reach directly 8,466 individuals, including (1,955 male, 1,805 female, 3,124 boys 1,482 girls).

SDG’s that the project contributes to achieving

Funder(s)

adidas Foundation

Mosa Moori

Country representative – Yemen