“One of the objectives is to be united in our efforts,” Mr Moi said.

“It’s about teamwork.

“We are working as a team with other agencies already in place to help out members of the African community and minimise any potential problems.”

WAFRICA’s executive is expected to hold a meeting with African residents next week.

“We want to have a plan of action for the future of the community,” Mr Moi said.

“The meeting is not specifically about the isolated incidents which have occurred – that will be a side issue.”

WAFRICA is also hoping to schedule a meeting with police and Wagga Mayor Kerry Pascoe to discuss matters concerning the community. Mr Moi said WAFRICA will combine with the Multicultural Council and Centacare to work on new programs for the younger Africans.

“We want to reach out to the young people ... at the moment there are no programs for them,” he said.

“One thing we have worked on with Centacaare is a basketball program.

“We are hoping to keep the younger ones busy instead of being idle, as well as improving their skills at the same time.

“Sometimes you see people get into trouble because they have nothing to do.”

Residents love living in Wagga

WAGGA’S African community loves living in the city, according to one of its leader.

WAFRICA president John Moi said there are close to 500 African residents in the city.

“I know they are very happy here,” Mr Moi

said. Refugee resettlement co-ordinator Erwin Richter has labelled a series of incidents involving African residents as a “deliberate campaign of provocation designed to create resentment”.

The incidents which have occurred in February and March include confrontations in Wagga’s CBD and an alleged assault in Turvey Park.