WeeklySA_AdminFAITHFUL: New Kaizer Chiefs supporters’ branch in Engcobo amid day-long weekend festivities, including a street parade…
By Siyabonga Kamnqa
IN a town recently riddled by service delivery protests and a high-crime rate, a sporting event brought its residents together for a fun-filled day and peaceful cause.
As Kaizer Chiefs football club launched its Ngcobo supporters branch this week, the streets of Ngcobo – home to struggle stalwarts Walter Sisulu and Dr AB Xuma – came to a standstill on August 2.
On-the-field successes and failures were put aside as more than a thousand supporters converged on the Indoor Sports Centre for the launch. Supporters’ branches from various provinces, including the Western Cape, Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal were represented.
Dressed in their Amakhosi regalia, there was excitement as the fans chanted Amakhosi traditional songs and ululated and danced. Former Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper Brian Baloyi was expected to be a guest of honour, but didn’t pitch-up.
But this didn’t dampen the spirits of the Amakhosi faithful who were in a joyous mood throughout the occasion.
Kaizer Chiefs branch chairperson Msekeli Songxawa, said “as a peace loving family we want to see peace and stability in Ngcobo through sport, and soccer in particular.”
“And through the launch of this branch we are hoping that everyone in attendance will spread the word that sport has got the ability to change lives for the better. Yes, we are faced with a number of social ills such as substance abuse, but the love of soccer can make a meaningful impact and create positive-thinking,” he said.
Another organiser, Abonga Komsana, sang praises of local business people who supported the event. Five cows, 12 sheep and five pigs were slaughtered to feed the fans who attended the event.
“The town’s economy suffered a knock due to the recent shutdowns. But this weekend alone all Bed-and-Breakfast (establishments) were fully booked and everyone who attended supported our local businesses. We are very proud of having played our part in uplifting our town,” said Komsana.
Another organiser, Bongi Qongqo, told Weekly SA Mirror that the event was about bringing hope, particularly to the youth who were affected by substance abuse and drug demons.
“If there is one thing that can bring hope to our young people, who often wander the streets and get trapped in drugs, it has got to be soccer.”
