In a significant development, the Ministry of Health has signed a historic partnership agreement with the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF) to collaborate on promoting health messages during football tournaments, as well as for VFF coaching sessions, player awareness, and volunteer initiatives.
The partnership document was signed by Acting Director-General of the Ministry of Health, Mrs. Judith Melsul, and President of the Vanuatu Football Federation, Mr. Lambert Maltok, in the presence of health and VFF officials. Mr. Maltok expressed his enthusiasm for this valuable initiative to promote a healthy lifestyle among players and fans.
Acting Director-General Judith Melsul highlighted that the Ministry would utilize this platform to deliver crucial health messages to the people of Vanuatu. Through this partnership, the Ministry of Health and VFF will work together to promote the Tobacco Smoke-Free event during the 2023 Oceania Football Confederation Champions League, currently taking place in Vanuatu.
It is important to note that smoking is strictly prohibited at all game venues, including the Port Vila Stadium and the Soccer City Stadium in Santo. The Tobacco Regulation Act imposes significant penalties for smoking in public places, ensuring a smoke-free environment for all attendees.
During the games, Ministry of Health staff will be present at the venues to ensure compliance with the Act and promote tobacco smoke-free games through the display of informative materials. The Ministry of Health has also generously donated health kits, including hand sanitizers, soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, masks, condoms, and dispensers, to the VFF.
The Ministry of Health acknowledges the support of the Australian Government through the Vanuatu-Australia partnership, which has provided assistance for this inaugural partnership agreement with the Vanuatu Football Federation.
