Luphisi soccer tourney aims to raise awareness for GBV

The Luphisi Sport Grounds came to life on Saturday August 12 as fans came to witness the much-loved Gogo’s in action after their International Football Grannies Tournament in Limpopo in which they represented South Africa.

They hosted a Women’s Month Tournament and the excitement was palpable throughout the day.

In the first match Khisane Gogo’s played against Halfway. It was not an easy game and Halfway won 1-0. In the second match, Khisane Gogo’s faced Masoyi Superstars. The latter won 2-0. In the finals the two teams that were left standing, Halfway and Masoyi Superstars, faced each other. Halfway won 2-1. They went home with grand prizes.

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According to Themba Mokoena, the sponsor of the event, the aim of the tournament was to raise awareness regarding gender-based violence. He said this scourge is increasing and affecting communities.

Mokoena also welcomed back the elderly women who went to Limpopo to represent the country. “The Gogo’s made it to the semi-finals and we are proud of them.”

The tournament was attended by various stakeholders such as Lifeline, the Mpumalanga Department of Health and the Pienaar SAPS.

A Lifeline representative, Dawn Khoza, encouraged abuse victims and people battling with mental health to visit any of their offices near them.

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“We want them to visit the offices so that they can be assisted. Our call line operates 24 hours as a counselling line. The organisation conducts telephonic counselling services, both anonymously and confidentially. The community should be aware that they will not have to give their names or share any personal details with the counsellor assisting them. Community members can call 011 422 4242 or 0861 322 322.”