LIMPOPO – The Matsila Community Development Trust Indigenous Boxing Musangwe tournament which will be held this Saturday at Makhado showground is expected to pull crowds during the 2017 Makhado Annual Show.
Chief Matsila of Matsila Development Trust said it is the policy of his company to plough back into the community.
He said sponsorship plays a pivotal role in sport development.
Matsila added that the royal council is committed to preserving the Venda culture and felt bound to support the tournament as Musangwe formed part of the Venda culture.
He praised the organisers for bringing back the forgotten cultural sport, adding that their aim was to keep people off the streets, especially the youth.
He said the game keeps them busy, keeping them from the temptation of engaging in crime.
“This is part of our culture, and as Africans we will continue to pride ourselves on our heritage,” he added.
The organiser, Patrick Ramarada, praised the management of Matsila Community Development Trust for their sponsorship despite the economic hardships faced by the business community in the area. He said it was important that future stars’ talent be identified. According to Ramarada, there is more to Musangwe than meets the eye.
“This is a sport that teaches respect among men. Boys are prepared for their future roles here, and we want to preserve that,” he said.
He added they wanted to see the sport grow but lack the resources to promote the sport.
“We ensure that Musangwe is as safe as possible. When a fighter sustains a cut or bleeds during a fight, we have to stop the match,” he said, adding that doctors and nurses will be on stand-by during every match.
Precious champion, Steven Ndiitwani, promised his fans that he is going to win again. The boxers comprise the likes of Thuso ‘Ngwazi’ Ramukakati, MTG Mahlako, Kethekanyo Nemaheni, No Hurry and many more.
