The City Karate Club "Jion" from Bihać is organizing the International Karate Cup of Friendship "JION-PEB 2023" today, in which competitors from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the countries of the region will participate. The Danish Refugee Council, thanks to its long-term cooperation with the Health Center Bihać, ensured the presence of Dr. Belma Novkinić, who, with the support of the DRC medical team, will take care of the contestants' health.
"Health Center Bihać is always there to support the local community. In cooperation with the DRC, I am happy that we are part of this positive, sporting story that will spread from our city across the country. I wish the contestants luck and success," said Dr. Novkinić.
The president of the club and coach, Bajro Durdžić, emphasizes that this is a perfect example of cooperation with a non-governmental organization aimed at strengthening social cohesion and providing timely support to the local community: "Today we are not only promoting karate as a sport but also team spirit and togetherness. I believe this is just the beginning of a successful collaboration with the DRC that is happening in the most beautiful way: supporting people, especially children, on their way to success."
Since 2018, DRC has been cooperating with healthcare institutions throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina and is continuously strengthening their capacities, primarily through education, donating new medical equipment, and renovating specific departments. This improves the quality of health services not only for the local population but also for people on the move who stay in the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
"We are determined to strengthen local communities, and this is particularly evident in the synergy with health institutions. Despite the lack of medical personnel, we manage to ensure that health services are available to every member of the local population, including people on the move accommodated in the centers and in outreach, and also to contribute to cultural and sports events. We will continue to do so in the future," emphasized Sanja Dželalagić, DRC Health Team Leader.