Hygiene and Sanitation Promotion Through Soccer in Northern Uganda

The Langi people of northern Uganda are traditionally cattle herders and subsistence farmers. Frequent cattle raids by a nearby people group, however, have discouraged the Langi from raising cattle. Further, the 20-year insurgency caused by the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) displaced many Langi into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. Cut off from their villages, the Langi were unable to practice farming or continue their communal way of life.

Now as violence from the LRA subsides, many Langi are returning to their villages. However, the loss of traditional farming and cattle herding activities along with dependence on foreign food aid has led to a rise in alcoholism and poor health. These problems are exacerbated by a lack of basic infrastructure such as operational wells and sanitary latrines.

Lifewater and its partner are working with Langi communities to restore access to safe water and encourage health improvements through hygiene and sanitation. As part of these efforts, they have organized a unique soccer and sanitation league.

This five-month project will involve 13 teams from 3 sub-counties in Lira district. To compete in the league, each team must agree to model and promote goof hygiene and sanitation practices in its home community. At each soccer game, league organizers and teams share positive messages about hygiene and sanitation. The season will culminate with the award of the "Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Promotion Cup" trophy to the winning team.

The total budget for this project is $44,009. For more information or to get involved, please contact Erin Roberts at eroberts@lifewater.org.