As Haiti prepares for its first World Cup appearance in 54 years, schools across the country are joining the celebrations through a football tournament designed to promote peace.

Organised by the UN Bureau in Haiti and NGO Viva Rio, the Ti Mondial 2026 competition brings together 48 schools, each representing one of the 48 nations taking part in the World Cup.

The tournament opened with children gathering beneath the flags of their assigned countries. Organisers hope the event will encourage trust and unity in a nation facing persistent violence. "Let's play for peace," said Viva Rio education coordinator Delynoi Christel.

Haiti's qualification has become a source of national pride. Forced to play home qualifiers in Curaçao because of insecurity in the capital, the team still secured its place at the tournament.

As Haiti prepares to face Scotland in its opening Group C match on 13 June, many Haitians at home and abroad are rallying behind the national side.