Benguela – Benguela Province's vice-governor for political, economic and social matters, Lídia Amaro, has considered it necessary to promote handball in schools, clubs and communities, in order for the country to maintain its top position in Africa in women’s category.
She was speaking at the opening of the 45th National Women's Handball Championship, which runs until the 25th of this month in the cities of Benguela and Lobito.
According to Lídia Amaro, the organisation of this championship demonstrates the Angolan Handball Federation's commitment to making this event a true national celebration.
She also said that the competition provides a unique opportunity to continue to solidify the bonds of proximity between citizens who vibrate, celebrate and are thrilled by the moves and goals of this sport.
The deputy governor recalled that women's handball, through clubs and the national team, has won several titles that make Angolans proud and happy, making them the best team in Africa.
She emphasised that the Angolan government had created legal mechanisms and public policies aimed at the youth, with a view to continually valuing not only sport but also players.
She then reminded that the government is also implementing the Strategic Plan for Integral Development for the five-year period 2023/2027, with emphasis on the axis that deals with sport in youth and is included in the National Sports Charter which represents a clear signal of its commitment with the promotion of the sports practice.
The chairman of the Angolan Handball Federation, José Amaral ‘Maninho’, said it was an honour to organise the event in Benguela, as to him it is a province of sport, particularly handball.
He explained that Benguela has given many talents to national handball and, for this reason, they decided to bring the 45th edition of the National Senior Women's Championship to that side of the country.
On the other hand, in the last match of the first round, played on Monday night, Casa do Pessoal do Porto do Lobito (CPPL) beat Madjesport from Bengo, 22 - 15, with the score already favourable at 14 - 7 at half-time.
CPPL player Gerorgina Chivela was voted the game's most valuable player ‘MVP’.
For Tuesday, is scheduled the games of the 2nd round of groups A and B, starting at 8am.
Find below the programme of matches:
Maculusso - Mora do Namibe (A)
1º de Agosto B - Estrela do Palácio (B)
4 de Junho - Pérola da Baía Farta (A)
Madjesport - Petro de Luanda (A)
Futebol Clube do Uíge - Sporting do Lobito (B)
Sporting de Luanda - 1º de Agosto (B).
CRB/MRA/jmc
