On December 7th 2021, The People’s Republic of China made a generous donation of twenty-two (22) table tennis (ping pong) tables to Dominica in an effort of expanding and growing the sport throughout the island.
Honorable Oscar George, Acting Minister for Sports, Culture and Community Development expressed, “We are here today to celebrate an initiative geared towards supporting the sport of table tennis and developing our local talents, to make our athletes more competitive.”
Furthermore, he congratulated the newly elected executive and president of the Dominica Table Tennis Association, Mr. Peter Letang, in whom he has complete confidence to drive the sport forward. “The reality is that the sport continues to struggle in terms of popularity when compared to other sporting disciplines. This is especially due to the quality of equipment available locally and even within the region which makes it very difficult for those interested in the sport,” he added.
Nonetheless, he believes that with the new sporting equipment, it will make it a lot easier to participate in the sport across several communities in Dominica. This would aid in increasing the participation in the sport, creating a pool of athletes and enhancing the athletes competitiveness at various levels.
Moreover, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China, H.E Lin Xianjiang, made the presentation of the twenty-two (22) table tennis tables on behalf of his home state. He expressed that he is confident that China and Dominica’s relations will grow from strength to strength and that their contribution will grow stronger for the benefit of the people of both nations.
Furthermore, Parliamentary Representative for the Roseau Central Constituency, Honorable Melissa Poponne-Skerrit, relayed her gratitude to the People’s Republic of China for their kind and timely donation. “This pandemic could not stop the sporting revolution in Roseau Central. I vowed to bring about transformation in the field of sport around the city and since this revelation we have seen sports come alive here,” she stated. According to her, it is evident that sports can continue despite the challenges that are currently faced.
In addition, Prime Minister Honorable Roseau Skerrit, took the opportunity to express his thankfulness for a donation which he considers will help Dominican athletes grow not only locally, but regionally and internationally. He voiced, “I must say to our citizens that the Chinese government and the Chinese people, have been reliable and true friends of the people of Dominica.”
Notwithstanding the Covid-19 pandemic, the government of Dominica is hopeful that sports can return someday. While the times ahead remains uncertain, the sporting revolution in Roseau Central and across Dominica will continue. With close relations to other states, specifically China, the government is ready and willing to develop and expand sports throughout the island.
