WSLM champions youth development through Mandela Month Multi-Sport Tournament
Story: Samkelo Fetile | Photo: Samkelo Fetile
In a powerful tribute to Nelson Mandela’s enduring legacy of unity, service, and youth empowerment, the Walter Sisulu Local Municipality (WSLM) recently hosted a three-day Mandela Month Multi-Sport Youth Tournament in Maletswai.
The tournament, part of the Municipality’s broader Youth Empowerment Programme, brought together 23 teams from across the region to compete in soccer, netball, and rugby - sports celebrated not just for their competitiveness but for their power to unite and transform communities. Youth from towns including Burgersdorp, Steynsburg, Venterstad, James Calata, and Maletswai participated in the event, selected through a fair, community-driven process that emphasized gender equity and geographical diversity.
Mayor Cllr Vania Davids emphasized the tournament’s greater purpose, “This is not just about sport. This is about building the future of our municipality by nurturing leadership, resilience, and unity among our young people. Mandela Month reminds us that the most powerful way to honour his legacy is through action that empowers our communities,” she said.
The initiative aligns with the Municipality’s Integrated Development Plan (IDP) and the National Youth Policy 2020 - 2030. It aims to foster leadership, discourage youth involvement in social ills such as substance abuse and crime, and strengthen inter-town solidarity.
Cllr Wongalethu Nodwele, who also attended the event, applauded the youth for their commitment and the community for its unwavering support, “It is inspiring to witness such energy and discipline from our youth. They are the heartbeat of tomorrow’s leadership. As a council, we remain committed to creating platforms that develop their potential,” he stated.
The tournament was not only a celebration of sport but a statement of intent by WSLM - placing youth at the centre of its developmental agenda. The awards ceremony to honour the winners of the three sporting codes will take place on Friday, 25 July 2025, with the venue to be announced.