Northam Booysendal launches soccer tournament

This is an effort to strengthen the relationships the mine has with its local communities. During the tournament, 16 teams were set to compete.

They are legally recognised by the South Mine Stakeholder Engagement Forums. Representing Booysendal management were Pius Monyela (stakeholder engagement manager) and Jack Selowa (stakeholder engagement coordinator: South Mine), the sponsors of the tournament, representatives of the Thaba Chweu Local Municipality, representatives of the South African Football Association (Safa) and the organising committee.

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Gerald Khoza spoke on behalf of the sponsors, indicating that they are committed to supporting initiatives that are for development and creating social cohesion in local communities. He further appreciated other sponsors and requested additional businesses to come on board and support when it comes to issues of community development.

In his remarks Jack Selowa (stakeholder engagement coordinator: South Mine) acknowledged all forum leaders present, and Cllr George Sangxu as a representative of the executive mayor.

“This initiative is aimed at bringing back issues of moral regeneration. A healthy body leads to a healthy mind. Most young people are roaming the streets, and some are taking drugs, jeopardising their futures. Today, we are here to ensure that we create a conducive and safe environment for our local youth and further give them hope by such an initiative and to deter them from using substances. We are here today to launch the Northam Booysendal Soccer Tournament, which will take place annually. This isn’t just a sports event, but will aid in integrating and finding a common ground for youth development. As Booysendal, we are committed to investing in and shaping local talent in sports. Those to be scouted should be given opportunities to grow. We need the next players to play for big clubs, and as Booysendal we are committed to ensuring that we develop youth in our local communities,” he concluded.

Congratulations to the Mashishing Unemployment Forum and Skhila Civic Association who have won and will be proceeding to the quarter-finals in the coming weeks. Mashishing Unemployment Forum won 5-4 against Kiwi Community Forum and Skhila Civic Association 4-3 against Extension 9 Unemployment Forum.
Both teams won in penalties shoot-outs. Supporters came out in their numbers to support the initiative. The stadium was full to capacity. Some supporters were even standing on the sides of the field. There were glorious chants and appreciation for what Booysendal is doing for local communities. Kiwi Forum’s chairperson, Moses Mankgaba, indicated that they had lost with pride as the match was fair and transparent for all.

“The officials were not taking sides. This tournament will impact the local forums positively and bring them together,” said Mankgaba. The matches were officiated by professional referees who will be available throughout the tournament. The winning team is set to take home R20 000 donated by Moletsi Telecommunications, one of the contractors at Northam Booysendal. There are also medals up for grabs and a floating trophy to be won. Both were donated by Mergunal, a local black female-owned company.

“In addition, we have scouts here today who will be on hand throughout the tournament. They will identify the best players during the matches and will be selected to form Team 2022, which will play in the trial against other teams for exposure and career advancement,” added Selowa.

Monyela appreciated and acknowledged the efforts by the organising committee, led by Selowa, and further indicated that the mine is heading in the right direction. “Management is fully invested in this initiative. I wish all the participating teams all the best, and let the games begin!”