DCAS hands over funding for quality sport facilities in communities

On 4 July 2017, Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais handed over ceremonial cheques to the value of R1 471 000 to the Mayors of the Breede Valley, Mossel Bay and Overstrand Municipalities for quality sport facilities in vulnerable communities.

The Head of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport (DCAS) Brent Walters welcomed the Mayors and other esteemed guests and mentioned that the National Sport and Recreation Plan (2012) (NSRP) makes provision for the development of sport facilities in vulnerable communities as one of the 14 key enablers for a conducive sport environment.

DCAS engaged with municipalities in the Western Cape on their specific needs and embarked on the allocations of the 2017/18 funding in the various regions of the province. The Breede Valley Municipality received a contribution of R100 000 to fund a feasibility study for the planning of a swimming pool facility in Zwelethemba and the Mossel Bay Municipality received R200 000 for a new netball facility. The Overstrand Municipality, Hermanus High School, Overberg Sport Council and the WP Hockey Federation partnered to develop a Hockey Academy. The DCAS contribution of R1 171 000 will fund the completion of the change rooms and clubhouse facilities.

Minister Marais encouraged the municipalities to take ownership of the facilities and to maintain and respect them. “These are invaluable assets to the enrichment of the livelihoods of all who will use them for constructive development”, she said.

DCAS supports municipalities to build sport infrastructure and encourages communities to participate in the activities at these quality sport facilities. Let’s leave a lasting sport legacy in our communities BETTER TOGETHER.

The speech of Minister Marais is available online.