Guangdong Province and Zhaoqing City funds Youth Park renovation project in Kiribati

Project narrative

On September 2, 2022, the groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation project of the Kiribati Youth Park was held. The project is not only a renovation of the existing park, but will also include new facilities, such as open-air basketball courts and beach volleyball courts, an outdoor fitness area, a children's playground and other integrated multi-functional leisure venues. The goal of the project is to complete a modern, high-quality multi-functional sports venue that will also aid in development of the tourism industry and serve as a symbol of China-Kiribati friendship. The exact commitment date of the project is unknown, but it was referenced by official Chinese sources as early as May 28th, 2022. According to a news article, construction is expected to be completed within 8 months after the groundbreaking ceremony. The project is funded by the government of Guangdong Province and the government of Zhaoqing City, located within Guangdong Province. The exact monetary amount of the project, as well as terms of the agreement, are unknown. China Railway First Bureau will construct the project, and the official recipient is the Kiribati Ministry of Environment, Lands, and Agricultural Development, supported by the Tarawa City Government and the Chinese Embassy in Kiribati. As of June 2024, the Youth Park was completely finished and the Kiribati President attended an inauguration ceremony with over 500 people. This park is the first modern, high-quality, multifunctional sports venue in Kiribati’s history, set to become a landmark attraction in Tarawa and significantly boost the country’s tourism development.