The community of Rawaki in the Solomon Islands has been introduced to regular organised sport as the result of a partnership between the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) and Save the Children.

Save the Children is the world’s leading independent organisation for the survival, protection, development and participation of children, and has 29 national organisations working together to deliver programs in more than 120 countries.

Rawaki, an island community in the Solomon Islands’ Western Province with a population of approximately 600 people, has not traditionally associated sport as a development tool within the community, due to limited access to recreational facilities or coordinated activities, and financial and geographical challenges.

Last year however, Rawaki was selected as one of four Western Province communities in the Youth Outreach Partnerships Project (YOPP). Throughout 2010, YOPP’s Western Province community activities have been a major part of the partnership between Save the Children and the ASC, through the Australian Sport Outreach Program.

A major milestone for the project was reached in July this year when Save the Children ran an inaugural football tournament for the four target communities in the village of Sambora. It was the first time the Rawaki youth experienced this type of gathering, with 18 of its young people participating.

Ms Veronica Makiva, Rawaki YOPP Project Officer said it’s clear how sport has brought isolated communities together for the first time, helping to create opportunities for the people to sell their local produce and to share in their cultures.

‘This landmark project uses sport to address growing social issues,’ Ms Makiva said. ‘We can now offer Rawaki youth the opportunity to be involved in sport and create fun, friendly activities that also promote good health and community engagement.’

‘They have now seen how sport can create wider opportunities for them at different levels, both nationally and internationally.’

‘Today you’ll find Rawaki young people and children put a lot of their interest into sports activities in the hope it will lead them to a better future.’

Dr Allison Simons, Development Manager for Australian Sports Commission International Relations, said the Sambora tournament has been a milestone for development in the Solomon Islands.

‘The enthusiasm and commitment by Save the Children staff and the communities has been a key factor in the success of this tournament. It has set a high standard for future activities.’

Following the Sambora tournament, Rawaki and two other communities will take turns in hosting tournaments in the coming months.

The Australian Sports Outreach Program Solomon Islands partnership is a five year project funded by AusAID through to 2014.