The children involved are all pupils at primary schools in the region and enjoyed two hours of fun football activities.
A range of non-government organisations (NGOs) – including the Women’s Affairs and Rights Department, Save the Children’s Fund and National Disability Organisation – were also present at the festival to raise awareness about their respective causes.
The festival was overseen by George Regenvanu, Just Play project manager for the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF), who says it was a big success and is looking forward to growing the event in the future.
“It was a great day and the kids really enjoyed it,” he says.
“It was really pleasing to see the NGOs become involved and help our children with advice on how to lead a healthy lifestyle. It is a good starting point to build from in working with the NGOs and we hope to hold hands together to help the children of the schools in Port Vila.”
Developed by the OFC social responsibility and technical departments, Just Play is designed for children aged six to 12 and promotes physical activity while encouraging community involvement and healthy living.
It was first launched in Tonga and has since been introduced in Vanuatu, Tahiti, Solomon Islands, Cook Islands, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and Auckland, New Zealand.
OFC is working closely with UEFA and the Government of Australia – through its agencies the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) – and Football Federation Australia (FFA) to roll out the programme across the Pacific over a three-year period between 2009 and 2012.
OFC also works closely with the member association, department of education and local community leaders wherever possible.
The confederation has also been working in New Zealand with Special Olympics (NZ) on a Just Play programme for people with mental disabilities and has launched the new initiative in Samoa and Fiji.
For more on Vanuatu football go to www.vanuafoot.vu

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