“The youth should identify their talent and government will assist you in any way possible” these are
the words of MEC for Culture, Sports and Recreation to Youth in Phola. Ms Sibongile Manana was
speaking during a hand over of sports attire and equipment ceremony on Saturday 22 February 2014
in Phola at eMalahleni Local Municipality.
Preceded by a football match between the mighty Phola All Stars and Victor Khanye’s very own PJ
Stars who put their best foot forward, the event started on a high note as the community of Phola
came out in droves to support and celebrate with the youngsters who were receiving brand new
sporting kits. Fifty-two kits and sporting attire were given to teams participating in netball, volleyball,
handball and football. Six Sport Councils from Dr. JS Moroka, eMakhazeni, eMalahleni, Steve
Tshwete, Thembisile Hani and Victor Khanye Municipalities were given balls, attire and indigenous
games equipment, these included Intjuba and Morabaraba boards as well as equipment for Intonga
and Dibeke.
During her address, Ms Manana warned the youth on the dangers of drug and substance abuse,
whilst encouraging them to lead a healthy lifestyle through exercise. Fresh from their National School
Sport Championships victory last December, two volleyball stars Siphiwe Mtsweni and Evans
Mahlangu from Mkhozana High in Kwaggafontein vouched to come out victorious in every game as
they are determined to continue making Mpumalanga province proud and the new kit will help them
do just that.
For more information, contact Ms Sibongile Nkosi on (013) 766 5372 or 082 492 4886