Lobamba – Football icons and global health champions are preparing to launch a new campaign at Somhlolo National Stadium next week, aimed at boosting vaccine confidence among Eswatini’s children.
The initiative, branded “Take a Shot, Win the Match,” is scheduled for Thursday, 2 October, during the CAF African Schools Football Championship. It will combine football drills, music, and storytelling in a workshop designed for 400 children aged between 10 and 14, alongside community leaders, teachers, and faith representatives.
UEFA Together Ambassador Eniola Aluko, a former England international footballer, will be the main attraction of the day. Aluko is expected to work directly with pupils during training activities and discussions, using her influence in sport and advocacy to connect with young people.
The campaign is organised by UEFA Together, Gavi the Vaccine Alliance, CAF, and Access Challenge. Organisers said the aim is to strengthen trust in vaccines and counter information gaps, particularly in rural communities where access to health services remains a challenge.
Eswatini’s vaccination rate stands at 77 percent, leaving nearly one in four children under or unvaccinated. Officials explained that this initiative builds on the success of last year’s school-based campaign, which combined HPV and COVID-19 vaccinations with nutrition services.
The launch will feature dialogues with community leaders and cultural figures, group activities blending sport with health education, and ceremonial moments marking the partnership between football authorities and health organisations.
UEFA Deputy Secretary General Zoran Lakovic and senior CAF representatives are also expected to attend, joining Aluko in their commitment to use football’s influence to protect children across the continent.
The “Goal Getters” campaign will be presented as a model for vaccine confidence programmes in other African countries.
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