A new $49,800 sports ground was officially handed over to Nawaisomo Primary School in Naitasiri yesterday, giving students and the community in Gonenicolo a proper space for sports and recreation.
The 100-metre by 70-metre facility was built by the Ministry of Youth and Sports and is expected to boost sports participation in the area.
In a Facebook statement released yesterday, Ministry of Youth and Sports Honorable Jese Saukuru said while officiating at the handover ceremony, “It’s always a pleasure for me to hand over Sports Grounds that provide the Fijian people with more opportunities for sport and recreation.”
He said the Ministry, as the only government body mandated to develop sports in Fiji, firmly believed in the power of sports as a tool for nation-building, youth empowerment and social cohesion.
“We hope that this facility will not only boost participation in sports but also produce future national representatives who will carry the Fijian flag with pride on the international stage,” he said.
The Minister encouraged young people in the district to make the most of the new facility.
“To our young people of this District Gonenicolo, this facility belongs to you. Use it well. Train hard, play fair, and let this court be a stepping stone to your dreams. Whether you aspire to represent Fiji in sports, stay active for health reasons, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of playing with friends, this space is yours to grow and excel.”
Saukuru also thanked the partners and stakeholders who contributed to the project, saying their support reflected a shared commitment to youth and sports development.
The new sports ground is part of the Ministry’s work to improve facilities across Fiji, especially in rural and maritime communities, to give all young people a chance to develop their skills and stay active.