European Parliament and European Commission visit

Having been invited to the European Parliament and the European Commission in Brussels, Bhubesi Pride’s project coordinator, Richard Bennett was welcomed by MEPs and influential political figures to present the project, also receiving endorsement, continued support and involvement with the EP.

During the two-day visit, Bhubesi Pride’s Richard Bennett met with MEPs Derek Vaughan [Welsh Labour MEP], Emma McClarkin and Richard Ashworth [both European Conservatives and Reformists Group] who are involved in the newly formed European Parliament Rugby Union Intergroup.

Richard Bennett met with Ambassador of Botswana Mrs C. Tshenolo Modise who is hugely supportive of Bhubesi Pride’s project, welcoming the team to Botswana next year:

“It was a pleasure meeting Mr Bennett and discussing what I believe will be a huge and successful project. If there is anything that I can do to help, please do not hesitate to shout.”

In a very helpful and informative meeting, Bhubesi Pride’s project was presented to Alan Wells and Bart Ooijen at the Directorate-General for Education and Culture [Sport Unit] at the European Commission.

Bhubesi Pride wishes to thank Francis Cole [Unit with responsibility for parliamentary relations with Africa] for arranging and facilitating the meetings during this Brussels visit.

The European Parliament is involved in the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, which brings together MEPs and Members of Parliament from the African, Caribbean and Pacific States.

In 2000, eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) were drawn up, adopted by the UN; the EP is committed to help meet these targets:

1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger

2. Achieve universal primary education

3. Promote gender equality and empower women

4. Reduce child mortality

5. Improve maternal health

6. Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases

7. Ensure environmental sustainability

8. Develop a global partnership for development

Through continued project support and careful planning, Bhubesi Pride hopes to compliment existing work and contribute to ongoing efforts of points 2, 3, 6, 7 and 8.

Bhubesi Pride is on the agenda for a meeting at the European Parliament and will return to Brussels at the end of September.