NQAMAKWE- Political leader of the political party, Batho Pele Movement(BPM) Veliswa Mvenya recently sponsored a soccer tournament for rural youth in Nqamakwe. The tournament which took place on the 4th of November 2023 bringing together young people from various villages across Nqamakwe to compete in sports.
The initiative was the brainchild of Mvenya, a passionate rural development activist who recognized the struggles faced by young people in rural areas. Mvenya realised that youth from the remote areas they are struggling in terms of resources, however every village has a soccer team regardless of scarcity of resources. Veliswa emphasised that, “I started supporting local soccer teams in 2021 by buying them soccer balls, kits and soon I realized that there was a bigger need to be addressed,” she added.
The movement’s mission is to support rural youth through sports and to encourage the government to prioritize their needs. “These teams were telling me that ruling party government organised these tournaments before but would not deliver the promised prizes. That is another gap we are trying to fill as BPM,” Mvenya continued.
The recent tournament was a testament to the BPM’s commitment to its cause, soccer tournament held at a local Mtawelanga in Nqamakwe sports field, the event brought together teams from surrounding villages, who competed in a series of exciting matches. The winners were awarded medals and soccer kits, courtesy of the BPM, but the BPM’s efforts do not stop at soccer, the movement is also committed to supporting netball and athletics, with plans to organize tournaments for these sports soon.
“I would like to participate in tournaments because I wish to win something for the community, Secondly I also have a wish to expose my players to potential scouts so that they can further their careers, hence we always travel to destinations that we can get to. I also want to ensure that the youth are not exposed to drugs and alcohol abuse,” Coach Siweze Binase of Bhoqo Football Club.
The BPM’s initiative has not gone unnoticed. Residents have praised the movement for its efforts, and young people are already benefiting from the support. “The are other upcoming tournaments we wish to join however, expenses are one of our main challenges, but we will not give up. We are grateful of what Ms Mvenya has done for us and we hope she does not get tired.” Coach Binase.
The BPM’s success is a reminder that with passion and dedication, anything is possible. As Veliswa said, “I’m driven by my passion for development, and I’ll continue to support these young people forever, I would rather go to bed on an empty stomach for these poor rural young people.”
The Batho Pele Movement is a shining example of what can be achieved when individuals come together to make a difference in their community. Its efforts are truly inspiring, and a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and create positive change.
