Algeria's Bouira OPOW Appoints New Director

Hocine Hamal has been appointed as the new director of the Office Provincial des Œuvres Sociales (OPOW) Rabah Bitat in Bouira, Algeria. He replaces Fouad Dabba and previously served as director of the Office de Développement Économique et Social de la Jeunesse (ODEJ) in Bouira. Hamal's appointment was made by the Ministry of Youth and Sports (MJS). His arrival marks a significant change for the OPOW, which has been facing challenges.

Upon taking office, Hamal met with OPOW staff, including officials, cadres, and auxiliary workers. The meeting provided an opportunity for employees to express their concerns, assess the current situation, and outline a new plan. This discussion followed a three-month strike by OPOW workers. Hamal's first priority is to address the grievances and find solutions to the problems faced by the office.

One of Hamal's key initiatives is to reopen local sports facilities and swimming pools across the wilaya of Bouira. There are ten swimming pools in the region, one in each of ten daïras, except for El Hachimia and Souk El Khemis. The director announced that these facilities would be open to young people aged 7-14, accompanied by their parents, and those aged 15 and above, with specific time slots, free of charge.

The reopening of swimming pools is particularly significant during the summer vacation and hot weather. Hamal emphasized that this would prevent children from venturing into dams and other water bodies, which often leads to drowning incidents. Residents of El Hachimia can use pools in Sour El Ghozlane or Aïn Bessam, while those in Souk El Khemis can access the pool in Bir Ghbalou, about 12 km away.

Hamal urged OPOW workers to make a concerted effort to manage sports facilities responsibly and efficiently. He encouraged a spirit of solidarity among staff to ensure the proper utilization of these facilities. The new director's approach aims to promote social and sporting activities in the region.

The local community is expected to benefit from Hamal's initiatives, particularly the young people who will have access to sports facilities and swimming pools. The OPOW's new direction may help resolve the conflict that led to the three-month strike. Hamal's efforts will be closely watched by the community and the Ministry of Youth and Sports.

Hamal's appointment and plans have been welcomed by OPOW staff and the local community. His experience in the ODEJ and his new role as OPOW director are seen as positive factors in addressing the challenges faced by the office. The reopening of sports facilities and swimming pools is a significant step towards promoting social and sporting activities in Bouira.

Key points

• Hocine Hamal appointed as new director of Bouira's OPOW Rabah Bitat.
• Hamal aims to reopen local sports facilities and swimming pools across the wilaya.
• The reopening of swimming pools is expected to prevent drowning incidents among children.