• 

With hundreds of fans taking part in the GGArmy On Tour at the FIFA World Cup in 2010, and thousands more Aussies set to make the trek independently, the GGArmy has been seeking a way to leave a legacy in South Africa long after the final whistle has been blown on the tournament.

And what better way to do this than raising funds for South Africa’s HIV-affected youth?

In conjunction with the Australian Red Cross, the GGArmy is leading the charge to raise $50,000 for the South African Red Cross’ HIV Youth Peer Education Project which aims to increase the knowledge of youth on HIV and AIDS in the most vulnerable communities and improve the quality of life of the most vulnerable youth, and reduce the incidence of HIV infections.

Youth peer education is one of the most useful tools in preventing HIV transmission as it allows information and education to reach the young in vulnerable communities where there are lower levels of access to mass media and other forms of sensitisation.

The recruitment of Peer Educators from within these communities also serves to ensure that the content of the message is delivered in a manner and language that is demographically and culturally appropriate.

The GGArmy is also working with the Red Cross to facilitate hands-on activities for Australian fans to interact with South African communities on non-match days during the World Cup.

While it’s hoped that Australia will leave a big impact on the World Cup on the field and in the stands, rest assured, any money donated by Australia’s dedicated football fans will leave a legacy in the rainbow nation that goes beyond football.

While the target of $50,000 is a bold one, it is very much achievable. If everyone registered with the GGArmy’s website donated just $5, the target would be smashed. Australian Red Cross will transfer all funds raised by the Green and Gold Army to South African Red Cross for its HIV Youth Peer Education Project.

More Information
UNAIDS estimated that, in 2003, about 65% of new HIV infections occurred in the group under the age of 24.

According to the 2005 Mid-Year Population Estimates of South Africa, the prevalence of HIV amongst women in the 15-24 years category, at antenatal clinics, was 25%.