On Monday, Kashaka Cupid, the Minister of Youth, Sports, Culture, and Creative Industries, reaffirm the government’s commitment to sports development and announced specific infrastructure projects.
Cupid noted that sports in the country had been on a “downward trajectory” and stated that the current administration is dedicated to the advancement and development of sports across all disciplines, not just football and emphasized that to produce world-class athletes, it is imperative for the government to upgrade sporting facilities.
A major portion of the Minister’s address focused on an initiative to install lights at playing fields to allow for evening activities, which he hopes to achieve within the next three to four months.
He confirmed that the lights are already on the island and identified the four specific fields designated for this upgrade:
• London Playing Field
• Layou Playing Field (where work on the bases has already commenced)
• Fitz-Hughes Playing Field
• Daphne Playing Field
He explained that lighting these fields creates opportunities for community bonding and allows individuals to engage in health and wellness activities after work.
Cupid highlighted his role in resolving a scheduling “clash” between the cricket and football associations regarding the use of facilities. He stated that as a passionate sports enthusiast, he intervened to ensure a cohesive solution where both organizations could be happy: cricket is proceeding with the Women’s Super 50, and football is hosting the U17 tournament and Premier League.
The Minister on Monday also spoke on the broader societal benefits of sports. He described sports as a “pathway and a light out of poverty,” particularly for young people from less fortunate backgrounds who may struggle to afford gear but possess talent and stated that successful athletes bring goodwill to the country and that hosting tournaments opens doors for the tourism product, benefiting hotels, caterers, and taxi operators.
Cupid commended the business community for partnering with sports, specifically mentioning Mr. Bob’s sponsorship, and encouraged other local businesses to exercise their corporate social responsibility by investing in athletes and sporting events.