Sport as a driver of peace and development in Haiti: The engagement of U-Reporters in Artibonite

In the town of Petite-Rivière in Artibonite, a community severely impacted by armed groups, young U-Reporters are taking action to offer children a constructive escape: football. Through this passion, they not only help preserve the health of children but also pass on essential values such as respect, unity and solidarity.

The power of sport in conflict resolution

For these young people, football is much more than just a game. "I always take it to heart to interact with children, teaching them that when they play, they are not opponents but brothers. I talk to them about peace, showing them that football has the power to reconcile," says Anderson, a U-Reporter from Artibonite.

The ball then becomes a common language, capable of bringing young people together around shared values where words sometimes fail. The field itself transforms into a space of community, far from the chaos.

Thanks to the matches and workshops they organize, these young volunteers show that sport can be a vector of education and social cohesion. They themselves embody the values they teach, such as fair play, listening and team spirit. Every training session thus becomes an opportunity to nurture hope for a more peaceful future.

Concrete actions for peace

"As U-Reporters, our mission is not only to speak but also to show young people that sport can play a crucial role in the development of the country," explains Stephenley, a U-Reporter from Petite-Rivière. A message of hope that is particularly strong in the current context of Haiti. The young U-Reporters are convinced that a different and better future is possible; a future built on unity, cohesion and civic engagement.

"Haiti can change, Haiti will not perish. My voice matters!" asserts Stephenley.

A real impact on the community

Like their counterparts in other regions, the U-Reporters in Artibonite are bringing tangible change to their communities. By training children to understand that sport can improve their lives and the life of their community, they are creating a movement for a united and peaceful Haiti.

As Mynelson points out: "When I see a child understand that football can bring peace, I feel we are on the right path."