The Vanuatu Football Federation 29th congress opens in Hog Harbour Santo this week.
A ceremony took place at Hog Harbour village yesterday starting with a parade led by custom dancers from the north eastern side of Santo, leading the delegates to the community stage where speeches were taken.
The delegates to the congress were welcomed by the chief August Kor Iavro followed by speeches from President of Sanma Football Association John Kaot and Joel Path who is the former Secretary General of the Sanma Provincial Government.
The community leaders all express their appreciation for hosting the important football meeting on their turf and they hope the decisions made will enhance football development in Sanma and Vanuatu.
This year also marks the end of executive board after four years and the new executive will be elected for 2020-2024.
President Maltock in his remarks at the opening of the congress, he emphasis the significance of hosting the congress in Santo’s Hog Harbor as unique and historical to be the first time for a congress outside of main centre and first time for a FIFA Vice President and OFC President to visit the village of Hog Harbor.
It is also first time ever for a community outside of main centre to host and is basically the aspiration of FIFA.
Speaking to Daily Post this month VFF General Secretary, Albert Manaroto, said the current president Lambert Maltock including the executive board have completed their four years term this year therefore the congress will be the election congress.
“We will have three representatives from each eight member associations in this election congress, where we will select a new president and new member of executive board.
“There are two candidates for the presidency role, the current president is contesting again and Steven Felix from Port Vila”, he said.
Other agendas of this year’s congress would be the financial reports, audited reports and 2020 budget including Freswota Stadium to be ready by 2021.
Hog Harbour and North East Santo is well known for its tourism landmarks such as the long stretch of sand in the vicinity known as Champagne Beach, Lonnoc to Port Olry.
[END]Photo: Cover photo from Santo Heritage Tours
