Zimbabwean women tackling HIV with football
13/10/2009
Women in Zimbabwe who are infected with HIV are using football as part of their efforts to reduce the stigma associated with the virus.
Earlier this month one such team, ARV Swallows, battled their way to victory in one competition for players who have openly declared they are HIV positive.
Goalkeeper on the team Thandiwe Richard told BBC Sport: "I'd like the whole world to know about my status, so that others can be helped."
She added that playing football has helped her improve her fitness.
Locals in the community did not take the team seriously when it first started, Ms Richard told the broadcaster, but as the Swallows began to win more tournaments people in the township of Epworth began to pay more attention to the team.
So far, no men's competition has been started as there have not been enough volunteers to form two teams, the broadcaster notes.
Earlier this month, South Africa was commended for its efforts to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS across the region.
Written by John Curtis
