The Fiji Times

Lynda stresses sports’ role in fighting NCDs

- By MELI LADDPETER

“NON-COMMUNICAB­LE diseases (NCDs) is a huge threat in Fiji right now, and taking part in sporting activities is a great way to keep safe from these sicknesses.”

These were the words of Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tubuya during the official opening of the Bula House Futsal Soccer Competitio­n at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva on Tuesday.

The competitio­n, sponsored by Rexona under the Motibhai Group of Companies, features a total of six women’s teams and 40 men’s teams.

“In Fiji, one of the major health risks and number one killer today is the shocking increase in the number of NCD cases.

“To address this issue, I believe that sports is Fiji’s solution to the fight against NCDs,” the honorable minister said.

She thanked Motibhai for their support in providing women’s football an equal playing field for a sport mostly dominated by men.

“I acknowledg­e your unwavering support in providing women an equal playing field in futsal and contributi­ng to our vision of eliminatin­g violence against women.

“To all the women’s team, I thank you for taking the courage to participat­e in this tournament.

“In my eyes, you are all winners.”

Meanwhile, Bula Events Group director Alan Kumar thanked the Motibhai Group and Rexona for the decision to come on board as major sponsors of the event.

“I would also like to thank the honourable minister for taking her time out to come and show her support for this competitio­n,” he said.

“We have set a benchmark in futsal soccer in the country, and we are ready to deliver again come 2024 and take it another level higher than last year.

“We are confident that this tournament will be the biggest futsal tournament in the country.”

 ?? Picture: SOPHIE RALULU ?? Motibhai futsal player Ragigia greets Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya during the launch of the Bula House Futsal Soccer Competitio­n at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva on Tuesday night.
Picture: SOPHIE RALULU Motibhai futsal player Ragigia greets Minister for Women Lynda Tabuya during the launch of the Bula House Futsal Soccer Competitio­n at the FMF Gymnasium in Suva on Tuesday night.

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