In addition to training sessions, the Mulanje Sapitwas have access to after-school courses in Math, English, and Computer Science.
The project aims to give girls the opportunity to challenge themselves and grow in a safe environment, guided by the values of sport: perseverance, focus, resilience, and responsibility. Participation requires good academic performance, teamwork, and consistency.
This initiative was born from the awareness that gender inequality represents a crucial challenge in Malawi - a country with high rates of child marriage and early pregnancies, which further limit girls’ opportunities for growth and development.
Malawi has one of the highest rates of child marriage, with 42% of girls married before the age of 18.64% drop out of sports by age 16–17, and 80% feel excluded from sports activities, which remain largely inaccessible and non-inclusive for Malawian girls and women. Through sport, we aim to help these girls build self-esteem and awareness, empowering them to aspire to a brighter future.
We also collaborate with the Girl Up United Nations Foundation, which promotes gender equality and female empowerment. We regularly organize games and activities to raise awareness among the girls about their rights, the importance of pursuing their dreams and ambitions, and believing in themselves.
Consolidating partnerships with local organizations is essential to ensure that our project is welcomed, supported by the community, and sustainable in the long term.
Rugby is a teacher of life. It is a sport that helps girls gain awareness of their bodies and their potential. Its rules are both intellectually and personally stimulating: rugby teaches young players to trust that someone will always be by their side to achieve a common goal, and in turn, that supporting their teammates - literally and metaphorically - is the only way forward.
The success of this project is measured not only by victories on the field but also by the renewed confidence that drives these girls to actively contribute to their community. Looking ahead, the ultimate goal is to provide practical skills that enable them to apply what they’ve learned to everyday challenges - such as managing finances and household budgets - giving them access to greater opportunities.
