As the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea prepares to kick off, some of Africa’s biggest soccer stars have been practicing more than just their moves on the soccer field; they’ve also been practicing delivering messages about malaria control.

Athletes delivered malaria prevention and treatment messages in new United Against Malaria (UAM) Public Service Announcements. The new PSAs will be shown at half-time during matches aired in Ghana, Senegal and many other African countries through local and cable television stations.

One of the messages is: All children deserve a chance at greatness, just like their heroes on the football field.

Get a glimpse of this new PSA series here.