Department of Local Government Launches Community Based Outdoor Play Facilities
Being active provides children with opportunities to develop their creativity, cognitive skills and physical abilities. It is important that we provide safe spaces to play, develop and practice their skills within the community. The Department of Local Government has made available playgrounds in various areas across Mahe, Praslin and La Digue which are not being used properly is the reason why on Friday 11th October 2019 a short ceremony at the Anse Royale district was organized to launch the Community Based Outdoor Manifestation and promote the proper use of the facilities available.
The ceremony was attended by Designated Minister MacSuzy Mondon, Principal Secretary for Local Government Marie-Celine Vidot, representatives from National Sports Councils (NSC), Ministry of Education, Health Care Agency, Seychelles Fire & Rescue Agency, primary school students of Anse Royale and other partners. The invitees were welcomed by the District Administrator which was followed by the official launching presided by Ms. Betty-May Sofa – the Senior Policy Analyst within the department of Local Government. Present at the launching to provide the invitees with a blessing were Reverend Christine Benoit and Father Collin Underwood.
After the official launching, the invitees had the opportunity to interact whilst the school children go0t engaged in the various activities organized amongst which there we sports activities, outdoor playground activities, familiarization visit on fire engine amongst other things. After the first group of students which were from Crèche level, students from Primary 1 were also present and then it was the Primary 2 students who were involved in the activities. The activities ended in the afternoon allowing the students the opportunity to enjoy themselves to the maximum.
It is good to note that to date there are 13 community playgrounds available. In addition to promoting the good use of the facilities, the Department of Local Government will undergo a series of renovation and maintenance work on the existing facilities. In order to deter children from engaging in social-ills of the community, new construction of safe playing areas will also be embarked on across the country. It is expected that the facilities will be respected and put to good use.