Axarquia • Issue No. 2026 • 2 - 8 May 2024
FREE
ILMAINEN
GRATIS
GRATIS
GRATIS
VRIJ
International spirit
FREI
Catherine McGeer
MAYOR Jesús Lupiáñez and the town council welcomed the Amivel Reyes Gutiérrez wheelchair basketball team at the town hall, celebrating their Eurocup 2025 qualification. Lupiáñez commended the team’s flawless performance in the Qualifying Phase, highlighting their dedication and their achievement. Led by Pepe Lorca, Amivel secured their Eurocup spot by winning all four games at the Paco Aguilar Pavilion recently. The achievement not only highlights the team’s sporting skills and success but also champions social inclusion.
Image stage: Nerja Town Hall
Where cultures unite.
ting within the community, and strengthen the bonds that unite everyone. This year, the event honoured APAA-Nerja, an animal protection association dedicated to finding homes for abandoned dogs. APAA-Nerja mana-
ges to rehome around 300 dogs annually in countries like the Netherlands, Sweden, Germany, and Spain. Javier Rodríguez, the councillor for the Environment, presented the award to APAA Nerja’s president, Michael Kelly, acknowledging the organisation’s
vital role in the town. The day began with a concert by the Nerja Music Band, followed by performances by various music and dance groups, creating an atmosphere of celebration and appreciation for the vibrant multicultural community of Nerja.
Eurocup bound Paco Aguilar, instrumental in Amivel Reyes Gutiérrez’s journey, thanked the town for its
unwavering support. He emphasised the broader significance of the team’s triumph, showcasing the Image: Velez-Malaga Town Hall.
LA Plaza de España in Nerja was the stage for the Resident’s Day event on April 28, honouring foreign nationals who have chosen to live in the town. With nearly 8,000 registered foreigners from 84 different nationalities across five continents, representing 33.48 per cent of the population, Nerja and Maro feature a diverse cultural mix as highlighted by Ana María Muñoz, the councillor responsible for Residents. Muñoz stated, “This cultural diversity is undoubtedly one of our greatest treasures, making Nerja a truly special place.” Angela Díaz, the deputy mayor, echoed these sentiments, saying that Resident’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate diversity, enjoy the different cultures coexis-
potential of individuals with disabilities to excel and inspire others. The success of Amivel Reyes Gutiérrez resonates as an example of inclusivity and sportsmanship, enriching the community of Vélez-Málaga and beyond.
GRATUITO
G GRATIS
LIVREE
FFREE
GRATIS S
GRATUIT G
Non-potable pools AS summer approaches, the Axarquia region, located in a drought-prone region, is proposing a novel solution to alleviate water scarcity: filling private and community pools with non-potable water from wells. President of the region Jorge Martín highlights that pools undergo chlorination and purification treatments, ensuring safety despite getting the water from a non-potable source. The proposal aims to ease the burden on water resources while allowing residents to fill their pools. Martín emphasises the importance of consensus among the towns, urging collaborative decision-making. Recent rains have increased the water supply, enabling the possibility of pool refills. However, he stresses the need for careful management to ensure sustainability. Moreover, Martín advocates for long-term solutions, such as expediting the construction of a local desalination plant. He urges swift action from the central government, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Despite challenges, Martín remains optimistic, believing that heightened awareness and concerted efforts will lead the community through the drought with lessons learned for the future. As discussions continue, residents hope for pragmatic solutions to sustainably manage water resources.
Image: Shutterstock/ Alexander Steamaze
Making a splash in Axarquia.
on 13 Breaking barriers in Velez-Malaga.