FCBARCELONA.CAT

01.08.2009 11:02

Barca intensify commitment to fight Malaria

David Saura (enviat especial)

FC Barcelona committed itself to help in the fight against Malaria by becoming one of the main supporters of the United Against Malaria (UAM) organisation. The American Major League Soccer (MLS), guided by FC Barcelona, have also joined the project.

A year ago Barca joined the fight against Malaria by supporting the Malaria No More organisation and this Friday the club made a further commitment by becoming a major member of the United Against Malaria (UAM) group who are preparing a worldwide campaign to coincide with eth 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

MLS commissioner praises club

At a gala dinner organised by LA Galaxy, Barca announced their latest social commitment, which the MLS has also signed on for, donating 25,000 dollars to the cause. The MLS Commissioner Don Garber cited Barca as an inspiration in the world of sport: “their leadership has shown that football can change the lives of disadvantaged children in the world”.

Kobe Bryant well aware of social commitment

Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) President and owner of LA Galaxy, Tim Leiweke, echoed Garber’s sentiments, claiming: “you’ve used the platform of football to improve the lives of many children”. Leiweke is also one of the owners of the Lakers and commented: “even Kobe Bryant knows Barca is more than just a club”.

Finally, Scott Case, UAM director general also praised the club: “you are real champions on the pitch and also off it with your example in the fight against Malaria”.

2.500 mosquito nets in Mali and Senegal

In reply, Club President Joan Laporta thanked the speakers for their recognition of Barca’s work and explained the club’s objective in joining the UAM campaign as “winning the championship against Malaria”.

After thanking the players for their commitment to the club’s social work, Laporta explained that in the first year of work with UAM a total of 2500 mosquito nets had been distributed through the XICS centres in Mali and Senegal. Mosquito nets have proved to be the most effective preventative tool against Malaria, especially in Africa.