Vorwort vom Vorstand

Abschlussnewsletter September 2025

Dear reader,

After more than a decade of implementing Sport for Development on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the time has come to mark the end of an extraordinary chapter. With the conclusion of both the global and regional programme, we are taking a moment to reflect, to appreciate—and to look ahead.

Over the past 18 years, Sport for Development within GIZ has evolved into a globally recognised and scientifically validated approach. More than 1.5 million children and young people across 50 partner countries have benefited from it. Whether promoting gender equality, peacebuilding, employability, or mental-wellbeing – sport has consistently proven to be a powerful, accessible, and cost-effective tool for education and youth empowerment.

This journey has been defined by countless milestones. From the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa to the German Chancellor’s visit to Sport for Development activities in Brazil, from empowering girls and young women in Pakistan to supporting the re-integration of former combatants into society in Colombia Sport for Development has been present where sport connects and inspires. Along the way, we have built strong partnerships with clubs, associations, schools, and NGOs around the world.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and vision of our many partners. Whether international organisations, grassroots actors or thousands of dedicated Sport for Development coaches worldwide, they have been at the heart of this work – and will continue to carry it forward.

Looking ahead, while the BMZ will integrate Sport for Development more strongly into its bilateral and regional projects, GIZ will continue to advance the approach through a new in-house initiative starting in October. With partners such as the adidas foundation and the International Olympic Committee already engaged, we look forward to building on these collaborations and developing new ones. We invite organisations from all sectors to forge strong partnerships with us in applying sport as a practical and proven tool for education, inclusion, and social development.

We continue to believe in the unifying power of sport – its ability to break down barriers, bring people together, and inspire positive change. So, while this final edition of our newsletter closes one chapter, it is by no means the end of the story.

We invite you to stay connected through the Global Sport for Development Community and follow our journey on Instagram @sportxdevelopment. We remain committed, energised, and – true to the spirit of sport, ready for what lies ahead.

To everyone who has been part of this journey – our teams, supporters, partner organisations such as the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB), the German Football Association (DFB) and above all, the young people who give this work meaning – thank you.

We’re not saying goodbye – just see you soon.