Vision July 28, 2024 2 min read
Nkowankowa, Limpopo – The Nkowankowa Community Games, a celebrated local sporting event, continues to foster community spirit and athletic excellence. Hosted by Vuvekisi Holdings, the Games have been a staple of the Nkowankowa community since their inception in 2006 at the Matafuleni Soccer Ground.
A Brief History
The Games were founded by a group of visionary leaders: Stanley Khosa (Festival), Solly Nyambi, Makhen Kiekie Mboweni, Joseph (Chucklas) Nkuna, Moses Nkuna, Theo Moyana, and Johnson Nhlangwana. Their goal was to create an event that not only showcases local talent but also brings the community together.
Annual Launch and Event Overview
On December 26th, a launch event was held to brief attendees about the upcoming activities on December 27th. Representatives from netball, football, and rugby explained the procedures and provided detailed information about their respective tournaments.
Mr. Solly Nyambi served as a guest speaker, sharing the rich history of the Nkowankowa Community Games. Additionally, Matimba Makaringe, a successful female entrepreneur and founder of Courageous Cosmetics, inspired the audience by emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses to boost the township’s economy.
Community Impact
In 2009, Vuvekisi Holdings officially took over the tournament, ensuring its continuity and growth. The primary objective of the Games is to raise funds to purchase school uniforms for children, making it a vital community initiative.
Event Highlights
Mr. Castle Mathale, the Deputy Minister of Police,Mr. Mnisi and Mr. Makwakwa had the honour of presenting medals and trophies to the winners of the 2022 Nkowankowa Community Games.
5km Walk
- The first 100 participants received free t-shirts.
- All participants received Nkowankowa Community Games merchandise.
80km Cycling Race
- Cyclists travelled a challenging route passing Coach House, Tzaneen, Tarentaalrand, Letsitele, and returning to Nkowankowa stadium.
- There was only one female participant among the cyclists.
Netball Tournament
- 1st place: NCR
- 2nd place: Bakwala
- 3rd place: Dream Team
Individual Awards:
- Best Player: Peggie Ngobeni
- Best Mid Court Player: Lauretta Ngobeni
- Best Defender: Shermer Ngobeni
- Best Goal Shooter: Rivoningo Mathonsi
Football Tournament
- Winners: Nkowankowa XI
- The tournament followed a semi-finals format, culminating in a 3rd/4th place play-off and the final match.
Rugby Tournament
- Winners: Young Guns (22-19 against Nkowankowa Rugby Club)
- Only one match was played to determine the champion.
The Nkowankowa Community Games continue to be a beacon of unity and athletic prowess, celebrating local talent while supporting the educational needs of children in the community.
