U.S. Embassy Brazzaville organized the 6th annual Girls’ Soccer Tournament from March 7-14, 2015 in order to empower young girls through sports. In partnership with the Memorial Pierre Savorgnan De Brazza and telecommunications company MTN-Congo, the Embassy supported eight teams from public middle schools in Brazzaville under the theme of “Girl Power” to emphasize the fact that girls should be treated equal to boys. The display of girls’ skills in soccer, generally viewed as a sport for men, has contributed to raising awareness on gender equality and women’s rights. As a former soccer player, Ambassador Stephanie Sullivan literally kicked-off the tournament at the opening and closing matches. During her speeches, she emphasized that young girls have the potential to become whatever they set their mind to, regardless of their age or origin. In her speech, Ambassador Stephanie Sullivan quoted President Obama who said, “I’m convinced that a world in which women and young girls are treated equally to men and boys, is a safer, more stable and more prosperous world…women and girls are humans, equal in rights and dignity.” All 120 girls who participated in the tournament received medals in recognition of their efforts and commitment to teamwork. The top three teams were awarded trophies and funds to support their education. U.S. Embassy will provide free English classes for the 15 girls from the wining team. The best player and best goal scorers also received awards.
