Latest news with #PortfolioCommitteeonSport
IOL News
02-08-2025
- Business
- IOL News
A call to action: Portfolio committee can address accountability in South African football
One of the primary challenges facing the game lies within the South African Football Association (SAFA), which has been notably reluctant to take responsibility for the ongoing turmoil. This lack of accountability has not only stalled reform initiatives but has also contributed to a climate of distrust among stakeholders, particularly the corporate sector. The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture holds a critical key to unlocking the transformation needed in this beloved sport, provided its members engage thoroughly with the issues at hand and make informed decisions. While the potential for greatness exists within the country's talent and passionate supporters, deep-seated issues continue to hinder progress. As the appointed overseers of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, they are tasked with holding vital discussions on budget allocations, policy scrutiny, and performance evaluations, aiming to ensure that the department meets its mandate effectively and is held accountable for its actions. The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture can play a crucial role in revitalising South African football, and it must not be overlooked. To effect meaningful change, members of the Portfolio Committee must undertake diligent research on the myriad of issues plaguing South African football. They have the opportunity to engage with stakeholders from various levels to create a holistic understanding of the problems faced by the sport. This comprehensive engagement is vital; informed commentary and relevant questions can guide discussions in a direction that fosters responsibility and improvement. Their engagement must not merely scratch the surface. There is an urgent need to dissect the intricacies of governance structures within SAFA, demand transparency in operations, and call for a strategy that reinvigorates the passion of South African fans. Engagement must extend into addressing youth development, grassroots initiatives, and infrastructural support – elements that will secure the future of football in South Africa. Significantly, it's the corporate world's participation that could rejuvenate the sport financially and operationally. However, sponsors and investors are unlikely to commit funds so long as there is a perception of inefficiency and a lack of accountability within SAFA. A revitalised football association, one that embraces reform and responsibility, would pave the way for constructive partnerships that could elevate South African football to new heights. The Portfolio Committee can play a transformative role, provided it approaches its mandate with the seriousness and diligence it deserves. A recent parliamentary session raised a host of concerns surrounding SAFA's choices and salaries in coaching appointments across national teams. The South African Football Association (SAFA) finds itself navigating turbulent waters, facing heightened scrutiny over its financial constraints and coaching appointments amid a recent parliamentary session. Issues surrounding operational efficacy and personnel decisions are at the forefront of discussions, particularly concerning coaching roles across national teams. On several occasions, SAFA proudly announced that all coaching positions for the national female teams have been filled exclusively by South African women. SAFA President Danny Jordaan said parliament was highly pleased by this, asserting that the decisions reflect a commitment to empowering local talent. It would seem that the committee was rubber-stamping SAFA's act of prioritising nationality over coaching pedigree, and that undermined the potential for optimal performance. The coaches of female national teams are there firstly because they are women. This focus on gender may undermine teams' competitive edge. As SAFA continues to address its financial pressures, the path forward will undoubtedly require vigilance and a fine-tuned strategy that prioritises both inclusivity and high standards of coaching capability. The committee members should have asked whether these appointments are truly merit-based. Proponents of meritocracy contend that an ideal coaching situation requires a careful balance of nationality and qualifications to ensure optimal performance on the international stage. The fear among various stakeholders is that female coaches are being appointed primarily for their gender rather than their coaching acumen.
IOL News
08-07-2025
- Sport
- IOL News
R250 million allocated to enhance school sports programmes in South Africa
Challenges facing support for school sport came under discussion at the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture. Here, Bergsig Primary School's Thylo Hartzenberg looks to slip through the gap during his school's Youth Day 7s clash against Mimosa. Image: Fuad Esack Two hundred and fifty million rand has been allocated to school sports programmes in the country despite the challenges the programme faces. On Tuesday, the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture received a briefing from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) and the Department of Basic Education (DBE) on the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate sports and cultural activities into the school curriculum across the country. Khumalo, Acting Director General DSAC stated that challenges in the joint implementation of the school sport programme include Inadequate sport infrastructure in schools in previously disadvantaged communities. She said this limits participation and with the support of the DBE, they can unlock the resources to build more infrastructure in schools. Other challenges include: Inadequate funding: Annually, DSAC commits over R220m through the Conditional Grant for the School Sport Programme and there are competing funding priorities for the voted funds or norms and standards. Stakeholder management and cooperation: The programme depends largely on the smooth cooperation among stakeholders. However other stakeholders have used the school sport programme for their own agenda. Dual mandate of delivering school sport and uneven support and capacity Duplication of programmes with federations: Despite the limited resources, there are duplications of the same programmes with the federations and government-led school sport programme, resulting in misalignment. Khumalo said they were one year into the implementation of the MoU and called for more oversight to be conducted, something the departments needed to revisit. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading Eugene Mthethwa, an EFF MP, exposed the department's failure to translate policies into tangible programmes that create long-term careers in arts and culture. He critiques the over-reliance on events, workshops, and camps, which offer no real qualifications or pathways into higher education and employment. Dr Patricia Watson, DBE Chief Director for Care and Support in School stated that the school sports and enrichment programme at DBE is a flag ship of their enrichment space and that their collaboration with the DSAC is invaluable because it is through a collective effort and collective areas of expertise that they are able to deliver programs at the school level. Joseph McGluwa, the committee Chairperson, was concerned about the lack of explanation on key performance indicators (KPI). He encouraged members to go through the MoU thoroughly because there are many questions that one can ask. 'Transversal tenders were huge in the country and a three year contract in some cases were too long. If we could participate in economic participation and give small entrepreneurs an opportunity. We also still find that children from disadvantaged communities cannot get help to attend sporting events because they do not have the money,' he said.
The Star
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae remembered for his impactful storytelling and unrivalled talent
The South African entertainment industry is in mourning following the untimely passing of acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae, who died at the age of 40 from natural causes related to breathing problems. As tributes flood in from across the country, fans and colleagues alike remember the beloved actor for Chweneyagae's memorable performances that left a lasting mark on screens and stages alike. The actor, affectionately known as 'Cobrizi wa le Easy', rose to fame through his unforgettable roles, notably in the popular telenovela The River and his Academy Award-winning performance in the 2005 film Tsotsi . His ability to portray richly nuanced characters endeared him to audiences, making him one of the finest actors to ever grace South African screens. Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, shared a poignant tribute, highlighting the inspiring journey of Chweneyagae from humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of hope for youth aspiring towards careers in the arts. 'Presley was proof that where you start in life doesn't have to be where you finish. He was a living reminder that dreams from kasi streets are just as valid as dreams from polished boardrooms,' McKenzie stated. He further acknowledged the profound impact Chweneyagae made during his time, underscoring the storytelling ability that resonated with the soul of the nation. 'The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture mourns the loss of a true trailblazer – a storyteller who held the soul of a nation in his craft. We salute his contribution and commit to ensuring his impact is never forgotten,' McKenzie added while extending condolences to Chweneyagae's family and friends. The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Honourable Disebo Tlebere, voiced her grief, stating, 'Our winter has just become colder. The news of Presley Chweneyagae's passing has come as a profound shock, as we had hoped to witness his brilliance for many more years,' Tlebere said. Actress Terry Pheto, who shared an unforgettable moment in Oscar glory with Chweneyagae, voiced her devastation on social media, stating, 'I am shocked and saddened by the news of Presley's sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family and the rest of our friends and colleagues in the film industry.' In remembrance of Chweneyagae's legacy, memorial services are scheduled to take place on June 3 in Mahikeng and June 5 in Gauteng, with his final resting place set for June 7 in Pretoria. [email protected] Saturday Star
IOL News
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae remembered for his impactful storytelling and unrivalled talent
The beloved South African actor Presley Chweneyagae has passed away at 40, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of fans and colleagues. The beloved South African actor Presley Chweneyagae has passed away at 40, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of fans and colleagues. The South African entertainment industry is in mourning following the untimely passing of acclaimed actor Presley Chweneyagae, who died at the age of 40 from natural causes related to breathing problems. As tributes flood in from across the country, fans and colleagues alike remember the beloved actor for Chweneyagae's memorable performances that left a lasting mark on screens and stages alike. The actor, affectionately known as 'Cobrizi wa le Easy', rose to fame through his unforgettable roles, notably in the popular telenovela The River and his Academy Award-winning performance in the 2005 film Tsotsi. His ability to portray richly nuanced characters endeared him to audiences, making him one of the finest actors to ever grace South African screens. Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, shared a poignant tribute, highlighting the inspiring journey of Chweneyagae from humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of hope for youth aspiring towards careers in the arts. 'Presley was proof that where you start in life doesn't have to be where you finish. He was a living reminder that dreams from kasi streets are just as valid as dreams from polished boardrooms,' McKenzie stated. He further acknowledged the profound impact Chweneyagae made during his time, underscoring the storytelling ability that resonated with the soul of the nation. 'The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture mourns the loss of a true trailblazer – a storyteller who held the soul of a nation in his craft. We salute his contribution and commit to ensuring his impact is never forgotten,' McKenzie added while extending condolences to Chweneyagae's family and friends. The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation (SACR) of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Honourable Disebo Tlebere, voiced her grief, stating, 'Our winter has just become colder. The news of Presley Chweneyagae's passing has come as a profound shock, as we had hoped to witness his brilliance for many more years,' Tlebere said. Actress Terry Pheto, who shared an unforgettable moment in Oscar glory with Chweneyagae, voiced her devastation on social media, stating, 'I am shocked and saddened by the news of Presley's sudden passing. My heart goes out to his family and the rest of our friends and colleagues in the film industry.' In remembrance of Chweneyagae's legacy, memorial services are scheduled to take place on June 3 in Mahikeng and June 5 in Gauteng, with his final resting place set for June 7 in Pretoria. Saturday Star
Zawya
20-02-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Committee on Sport Reaffirms Commitment to Revitalising Boxing In South Africa
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture, Joe McGluwa, has said boxing in South Africa will not die during the term of the committee he chairs. He spoke on the sidelines of the National Boxing Convention, currently underway in East London, and added that boxing needed to be the ultimate winner of the convention. Mr McGluwa said the committee was determined to revive the sport. 'We will work with all the stakeholders at this significant gathering that will serve as a vital platform for shaping the future of boxing in South Africa. Boxing has played an integral role in South Africa's sporting history, with former President Nelson Mandela being one of its most notable admirers,' the Chairperson said. 'Over the years, boxing has faced many challenges, from governance issues to financial constraints that have hindered its growth and global competitiveness. The Portfolio Committee recognises the importance of this convention. It reaffirms its commitment to fostering transparency, accountability and the responsible management of public funds to protect the integrity of the sport.' The committee aligns itself with the minister's vision of using boxing as a platform to develop athletes into world-class competitors who uphold the highest standards of excellence. The two-day Indaba was organised with the help of the Minister of Sport, Mr Gayton McKenzie. 'Through unity and dedicated leadership, we are confident that boxing can be restored to its former glory, serving as a source of national pride and inspiration,' said Mr McGluwa. He called for a return to the golden era of boxing in South Africa. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
