The Government has handed over the first tranche payment cheque worth VT 2 million for the Vanuatu National Games that will be hosted by Tafea province.
The Director General of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Henry Vira presented the cheque to the Chairman of Tafea National Games Local Organising Committee (LOC), Acting Secretary General Etiene Ravo.
Mr Vira congratulated Tafea for having strong confidence to host the games despite the challenges.
He also reiterated the importance of working together as a team to bring the national sporting event to the province.
Mr Vira confirmed that a team of officers from the Ministry will travel to Tanna to inspect the facilities and meet with the LOC to discuss ground preparation.
Mr Ravo said he will ensure that the money is used purposely for preparations for the national games.
The Tafea provincial Youth and Sports Officer, Allan Dan, says ground preparations are going well.
"We have only eight weeks before the opening of the games and different working committees are really putting efforts for logistical preparation to ensure everything is ready for the games", Mr Dan stated.
The games will be held from 5-11 May.
Tafea province is expecting a total of 1856 athletes and officials who will participating in 12 different sports discipline on Tanna.
The government will support the games with VT 4 million.
Photo supplied. Caption: Director General of the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development Henry Vira handing over the cheque to LOC chairman, Etiene Ravo