The South Pacific Boxing Promotions sponsored “Women’s and Men’s Futsal Champions League” officially kicked off on the 24^th of September 2022 at the Mulomulo Muslim Primary School grounds.

It was a historic occasion, as it was the first time where a women’s competition is included for the yearly event organized by the Futsal Champions League committee. 

The Minister for Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Rosy Akbar was delighted to officiate at the inaugural event.

She thanked the various individuals and organizations who have thrown their financial support towards backing of the first ever women’s futsal champions league.

Akbar stated that the “milestone occasion also coincided with this year’s theme – Empowering our women to empower our nation”.

She stated that her Ministry was pleased to sponsor the Ministry of Women, Children & Poverty Alleviation Cup which will be awarded to the victorious women’s team each year.

“The aim of the Fijian Government in addressing the issue of violence against women and also children through policies and partnership”. 

Akbar also encouraged the participants to break the silence of child abuse and violence against girls so we can end the  vicious cycle of crimes against our children of Fiji.

She also  informed them about the Child Helpline number 1325 and Domestic Violence Helpline number 1560, a toll free number that are manned by professional counselors that are ready to listen to their problems and guide them towards getting the help they need and deserve. 

Whilst addressing the players and spectators, she also highlighted the need to prioritize education as it will change the way you think and set you and your children up for the future.

In her closing remarks, she thanked the organizing committee for their tireless efforts and wished the participating teams all the best with their games during the two days event. 

The Director for the Futsal Champions League, Nadeem Mohammed noted that this was a step in the right direction by giving women a platform to showcase their talent. 

He noted that the Futsal Champions League has 24 Men’s and 4 Women’s teams from around Fiji participating in the event. “

I thank the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation for supporting this tournament and promoting gender equality, women empowerment and child protection in sports.