An annual festive season touch football competition is back this year, aiming to stand against violence and substance abuse.
The Giroea touch football competition in Rigo, Central Province, has entered its third edition, bringing locals together for friendly yet competitive matches. The event provides positive engagement during a time when children and youth are most vulnerable to exploitation and other illicit activities. This year’s competition launch was held at Girobara village recently.
The competition features a diverse range of participants, with teams divided across several divisions to accommodate various age groups and genders. This year’s tournament includes eight senior A and B divisions, four women’s divisions, and four under-13 divisions. This structure promotes broad community involvement and fosters an environment of fun, respect, and inclusiveness among players and spectators.
For the first time since the competition began, the launch incorporated the Voice Against Violence (VAV) program, facilitated by the National Rugby League (NRL) in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Supported by international partnerships, the program addresses the critical issue of gender-based violence (GBV), reinforcing the competition’s community-focused ethos. The launch attracted more than 30 youths aged 18 and above who participated in the VAV workshops, while about 40 children under the age of 12 enjoyed fun games alongside the program.
The VAV initiative represents a joint commitment between PNG and the Australian government, working collaboratively to combat all forms of GBV as part of the broader PNG-Australia Partnership program. A key aim of the VAV workshops is to equip players with the knowledge and tools needed to recognize various forms of gender-based violence and abuse. The program encourages participants to use their voices to speak out and take action to prevent and stop violence.
