"The fruits of our labor will be evident this year": Minister

The Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, Ahmed Mahloof has stated the "fruits" of the government's labour over the past year will be evident in 2020.

While speaking at a special ceremony to celebrate the achievements of the Ministry of Youth, Sports & Community Empowerment, the minister stated that 2019 was the most successful year for sports in the country. He further added that there were many achievements in social empowerment last year as well.

Highlighting the ministry's plans to build an indoor basketball this year, the minister claimed that approximately 50 FIFA-approved football stadiums will be completed around the country this year in addition to approximately 18 youth centres.

Addressing criticisms accusing the ministry of only focusing on sports, the minister claimed that the media's coverage prioritising sports news over the ministry's community empowerment activities has given the public this impression.

Mahloof also thanked the ministry's staff for their role in last year's achievements as well as the president's office for their continued support and co-operation.