Association keeps village trouble free during festive period

IAWAKAKA in the Balanataman local level government (LLG) area in Rabaul, East New Britain, was once known for its notoriety but the village was largely trouble-free during the festive period — thanks to sports.
The trouble-free festive season was credited to the Iawakaka Sports Association which brought the community together to participate in men’s touch and women’s volleyball. Organiser and ward member Casper Valit said the tournament had served its purpose and ended on a high note.
He said the tournament was aimed at keeping the community engaged during the months leading up to Christmas and New Year.
Valit said the games were scheduled for Sundays, so that players could remain sober for their matches.
The tournament was initially planned to kick off in September last year with K2,000 given to each ward in Rabaul during Independence, however, the funding was deemed insufficient.
Valit then sourced additional funding and ran the tournament from October to New Year’s Day.
“I commend the development committee for our efforts in mobilising the community to participate and also the Iawakaka locals for their contribution in planning and participating in the tournament,” he said. Speaking during the grand final presentation, Balanataman LLG president Leonard Miang commended the Iawakaka community for a successful and trouble-free tournament.
He warned that governance work at the ward level should not be the sole responsibility of their ward member but rather a role shared by everyone.
Miang urged the people to improve their livelihoods and change their attitudes to bring about development.