Media Release – International Day of Sports for Development and Peace 2024
Statement by Mr. Savneel Sangeet Kumar, President of the Fiji Mountaineering and Climbing Association, on the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace 2024
It is with great enthusiasm that I deliver this message on behalf of the Fiji Mountaineering and Climbing Association as we commemorate the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace.
Celebrated annually on April 6, the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace serves as a platform to acknowledge the transformative power that sports and physical activity wield on individuals and communities across the globe.
The global theme for 2024, “Sport for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies,” profoundly echoes the spirit of our current era.
In today’s world, sport has transcended its traditional boundaries to become a significant catalyst for societal change. It bridges gaps between individuals, societies, and nations, enabling the exchange of cultures and values. The sports industry, which provides livelihoods for millions worldwide, has emerged as a potent tool for fostering understanding, inclusivity, and peace in diverse societies. It plays a crucial role in driving holistic development and improving the quality of life.
In Fiji, the sports industry, a sector worth millions of dollars, unites thousands of Fijians from across the country. According to the Reserve Bank of Fiji, sports contributed 1.7 per cent to Fiji’s gross domestic product in 2016.
The Fiji Mountaineering and Climbing Association acknowledges the increasing contribution of sports towards the attainment of development and peace. Through mountaineering and sport climbing, we are dedicated to promoting tolerance and respect, and empowering individuals and communities throughout Fiji. Moreover, our 20-year strategic framework underscores the importance of the environment, health, and social inclusion.
On this International Day of Sport for Development and Peace 2024, I extend my sincere congratulations to all athletes, administrators, and everyone involved with the sports industry in Fiji and around the world.