PANGUNA (21/03/2019): Bougainville Copper Limited (BCL) is in the process of distributing sporting equipment to local communities in the Kieta and Panguna districts.
As part of the company’s wider community assistance program, BCL’s locally-based staff have started distributing fundamental equipment including soccer balls, volleyballs, nets and ball pumps in the region.
Around 40 sporting associations will receive equipment to help them in the running of local competitions that many players participate in.
BCL Chairman Sir Mel Togolo said the company is a strong believer in the positive benefits that sport brought to the lives of young people and the role it plays in creating unity within whole communities.
“Sports like soccer and volleyball are popular in Bougainville and help promote active and healthy lifestyles, but in order to participate they need to have access to decent equipment and that’s what this initiative is all about,” he said.
“It’s so important that young people have constructive outlets to find their enjoyment and organised sport plays a major role in this respect. It also encourages teamwork,”
Bairima Volleyball Association Youth Leader Edwin Buruau said the equipment was well-received and it was great to see something meaningful being done to promote local sport.
“Without good equipment, you cannot run proper competitions and we would like to thank Bougainville Copper for recognising this, and for providing some of the essential things that we need,” he said.
Deputy Ward Chairwoman of Metora Ward, that takes in Pokpok Island, Ms. Mary Gula, said sport was one of the only options available to help keep youth in her ward away from trouble.
“By providing new sporting balls, nets and pumps to communities in Kieta and Panguna districts BCL is making a positive contribution to keeping young people on a good path and in helping to rehabilitate others away from trouble,” she said.
-ENDS-
Media contact: Eric Tapakau +675 7092 1556