5 July 2017 – The Minister of Sport and Recreation Thembelani ‘Thulas’ Nxesi on Tuesday, 4 July 2017 took time off his heavy schedule to visit the SAFA House during lunchtime to meet with Association President, Dr Danny Jordaan.
This was Minister Nxesi’s first visit to the football headquarters and promised to work hand in hand with the Association in taking football to the next level.
Minister Nxesi met with Dr Jordaan, CEO Dennis Mumble and Chair of South African Legends, Buti Mathathe during his lunchtime break from the ongoing party policy conference.
During his meeting with Mathathe, Minister Nxesi promised to work with the legends to grow the game especially in some far flung rural areas. He however, warned that his ministry would not work with any individuals or organisations whose programmes are not synchronised to those of SAFA.
“There is only one organisation that control football in this country and that body is SAFA; anyone who wants to contribute to the growth of the game whether at development or schools level, should do so under the auspices of SAFA,” said Minister Nxesi.
He said the legends had a huge role to play in growing the game especially with regards to coaching clinics, transfer of skills and coaching the educators who in turn will coach school pupils.
“Our programmes with the legends must target rural and poor areas; that way it will be a win win situation for the school pupils and legends. I will personally approach companies who do business in these areas and ask them to come to the party and help develop the game,” he said.