For the past decade, residents of the Kinoya community have expressed deep frustration as their aspirations for a multi-purpose court at the Velau grounds have been consistently neglected. Community president, Viniana Sinaitakala Seru, is appealing to the government for assistance in realizing this vital project, which holds paramount importance for local youth.
Seru has highlighted the community’s relentless commitment to the initiative, exemplified by hosting Kinoya Day events aimed at fundraising for the court. “We’ve been working hard on this project for a long time. We even organized Kinoya Day to raise money for the court,” she stated. The envisioned facility would provide a space for popular sports like volleyball, netball, and basketball, which are crucial for fostering athletic development among the youth.
The absence of a proper sports facility has not only hindered the athletic aspirations of local youths but also posed risks, as Seru believes it may lead some towards negative paths associated with crime and drug abuse. Kinoya is well-known for its challenges related to substance abuse, and the community views the proposed court as a way to engage young people in positive activities, steering them away from harmful behaviors.
In recognition of these issues, two local pastors have stepped in to connect with at-risk youths, offering guidance and support to help them move away from crime and towards constructive pursuits. Seru expressed her gratitude for their involvement, acknowledging their crucial role in providing mentorship to those who have previously encountered legal troubles.
The pressing need for a recreational facility in Kinoya has drawn the attention of government officials, notably the former Minister for Infrastructure, Meteorological Services, Lands and Mineral Resources, Jone Usamate, and the current Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo. “On our last Kinoya community day in 2022, our chief guest, Jone Usamate, became aware of our request for suitable land,” Seru noted. With an upcoming Community Day scheduled for November 29, where Minister Vosarogo will be present, Seru remains optimistic about future support. “I am excited about what is to come. With the support of the Nasinu Town Council and the Government, we are getting closer to making our dream a reality.”
This determination mirrors similar initiatives across Fiji, where new multi-purpose courts have been inaugurated to support community engagement and positive youth development. These facilities not only provide spaces for sports but also foster community spirit, essential for the well-being of future generations. The Kinoya community’s sustained efforts reflect a hopeful commitment to transforming their local landscape, making strides toward providing essential resources for their youth and strengthening communal bonds.