The Kalkara Local Council inaugurated “Ġnejnet iċ-ċkejken Ziam”, a new playground in the heart of one of this locality’s residential areas that was transformed into an inviting recreational area for children and adults of all ages.

During a visit to this new community space, Kalkara mayor Wayne Aquilina inaugurated this initiative with Steve Ellul, Project Green CEO. The creation of this project was financially supported by Project Green, as part of its corporate social responsibility initiatives, as well as the Scheme for the Development and Improvement of Playing Grounds in Various Localities between Malta and Gozo by the Directorate for Local Government.

This €145,000 initiative included the revitalisation of 335 square metres of public space, with the installation of versatile play equipment for all age groups, new landscaped strips with trees and shrubs, benches and other outdoor furniture. The new playground also includes security cameras and timber fencing for public safety and security.

With the support of the Ministry for Environment, Energy and Enterprise, and the Parliamentary Secretariat for Local Government, this initiative has breathed new life into a previously underutilised area in Wesgħet is-Salib tal-Assedju, next to this area’s housing estate.

The Kalkara Local Council named this playground “Ġnejnet iċ-ċkejken Ziam”, in loving memory of a courageous young boy, Ziam, who battled the rare Griscelli Syndrome. Ziam’s journey began with a diagnosis at the tender age of four months, leading to numerous overseas journeys for vital medical treatments, including a life-saving bone marrow transplant. Despite his adversities, Ziam’s unwavering resilience became a wellspring of inspiration for the entire community.

Mayor Wayne Aquilina said “This project started with a proposal I submitted to the local council, aiming to transform this abandoned and unused area into a space that can be enjoyed by the community. Ġnejnet iċ-Ċkejken Ziam now serves as a living memory of Ziam, a young boy who tragically lost his life in 2018. It’s the first playground in this area in Kalkara and a space for children to enjoy.”

Steve Ellul, CEO of Project Green, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative, stating that “through initiatives such as this collaboration with the Kalkara Local Council, we are asserting our corporate social responsibilities by providing over 3,000 residents with a welcoming community space where they can relax and interact in an environment which is safe for children. Through this project, Project Green reaffirms its commitment to enhancing the quality of life.”