BOV Rebbiegħa initiative announces projects to drive community development

Bank of Valletta is proud to announce the five projects that will be spearheading community development across Malta and Gozo over the coming year as part of the BOV Rebbiegħa CSR Initiative. Aimed at fostering sustainable growth and community engagement, the BOV Rebbiegħa Initiative identified five groundbreaking projects that will be receiving funding and support from Bank of Valletta. These were chosen from among 21 projects submitted by 17 different NGOs in response to the Bank’s open call made last February. The projects were chosen for their innovative approach and their potential to significantly enhance the quality of life of our islands and encompass a variety of areas including environment, sustainability, education, cultural heritage, and social inclusion.

This announcement coincides with the Bank’s 50^th anniversary celebrations, marking half a century of dedicated service and activism in local communities. The selected projects are:

• Conservation and Research of Loggerhead Turtles – Led by Nature Trust-FEE Malta, this project involves building an outdoor turtle tank and implementing satellite tracking to conserve and study loggerhead turtles.

• VR Educational Experience – Created by Żibel in collaboration with the Archelogy Department at the University of Malta, this initiative aims to showcase the beauty of the underwater world while highlighting the issue of underwater pollution through a virtual reality experience.

• Interactive Environmental Book – The Write Deal Association Malta will write and publish an educational interactive book about the BOV 4 Environmental Pillars, providing a virtual platform for learning and engagement.  

• Ġnien Community Project – Spearheaded by Għawdix, this project aims to interweave the wisdom of traditional Gozitan farmers with the innovative practices and ambitions of younger community members.

• Maltese Honey Bee Research – In partnership with the Biology Department at the University of Malta, the Foundation for the Conservation of the Maltese Honey Bee, will build ecological enclaves to support and promote biodiversity conservation through the study of the Maltese honey bee.

Commenting during the announcement, Charles Azzopardi, Head CSR and Events at Bank of Valletta explained, “It gives us great satisfaction to announce the chosen projects under this initiative, as they each represent a crucial step in our continuous mission to enrich the lives of local communities in Malta and Gozo. The selection process was incredibly rigorous and competitive, reflecting the high level of innovation and commitment of local NGOs. We are extremely eager so see these projects come to fruition in collaboration with the Bank over the months ahead”.

Mr Ernest Agius, the Bank’s Chief Operations Officer, spoke about the BOV Rebbiegħa CSR initiative. “Launched on our 50^th anniversary, this initiative underscores the Bank’s long-standing commitment to continue playing an active role in society and making a positive impact on our communities. It is aimed at protecting Malta’s environment while fostering a greater understanding and care for the natural environment around us. The projects chosen under this initiative not only address the immediate needs of local communities, but also lay the groundwork for sustainable growth and development. We look forward to witnessing first-hand the positive impact that these initiatives will bring.”