Save the Children Fiji (SCF) will be organising a ‘Race for Survival’ campaign that will be held at the Guru Nanak School grounds in Labasa today.

More than 400 children is are expected to attend the event and 240 of these children will take part in the race itself.

Speaking during the briefing at the Takia Hotel Save the Children media and communications consultant, Lisa Kingsberry, said the race was a global campaign by SCF which is run in more than 60 countries on a ‘Global Day of Action’.

“The campaign is focused on ending the deaths of children under the age of five years,” Ms Kingsberry said.

“SCF is focusing on ending preventable disease in dry conditions by teaching children easy and cost effective ways to protect their health in this dry weather.”

Ms Kingsberry said research showed that during the drought in 1997 – 1998 in Fiji water was prioritised for cooking and other uses over health and sanitation needs.

“The lack of access to quality water is proven to increase the risk of water- borne disease particularly in vulnerable groups such as infants and children,” Ms Kingsberry said.

“This is the third year the event will be held in Fiji but it is the first time the event will be held in Labasa.”

The race is a 1500m relay race focused on giving children a platform to voice their concerns around health in their own country and communities.

Feedback:  peni.drauna@fijisun.com.fj