Central SA
Minister hands over state-of-the-art sports facilities and equipment to Bloem schools─── REFILWE BEKANE 08:30 Mon, 02 Feb 2026
Several primary schools in Bloemfontein are benefitting from a national initiative to revitalise school sports, with new facilities and equipment being handed over as part of a broader drive to strengthen grassroots development.
The minister of sport, arts, and culture, Gayton McKenzie, visited three key locations in Bloemfontein on Monday (2/2) for the handing over. These events are part of a department initiative supported by strategic local and international partnerships.
The day was marked by high energy and community spirit, with all relevant stakeholders, excited learners, and local community members in attendance to witness the transformation of their facilities.
The proceedings began at Credence Primary School in Heidedal, where McKenzie officially opened a brand-new multipurpose sports facility.
The multi-purpose sportsground at Credence Primary School. Photo: Refilwe Bekane
Funded by MultiChoice through a public-private collaboration, the court is designed to accommodate various sporting codes on a single surface.
During the ceremony, Free State MEC for sport, arts and culture Zanele Sifuba made an impassioned plea to the community.
“Please take care of this facility; you must guard it, it is a gift. It will help the youth to grow and be better beings,” said Sifuba.
The facility is already being described as a community treasure. The department also noted that this is only the beginning, as they aim to connect with other communities to establish similar facilities nationwide.
To further boost local talent, sporting gear was distributed to several primary schools, including Credence, Heide, Joe Solomon, and Olympia.
Sifuba highlighted the broader value of sports, noting that the sector contributes significantly to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP) and the national economy.
Building character
Beyond the numbers, she emphasised that sports build character and provide a livelihood that feeds family members.
In an address to the learners, McKenzie shared his personal journey of overcoming challenges in his youth to become a minister eventually. He urged students not to be demotivated by their current circumstances.
“Don’t be afraid to dream; dream big and work hard toward those dreams,” added McKenzie.
Sports minister Gayton McKenzie shared his personal journey of overcoming challenges in his youth with learners. Photo: Refilwe Bekane
The day was not without its festivities. Local artist Mega took to the stage to perform, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The head girl of Credence Primary shared that she feels proud to have such a high-quality multipurpose playground at her school, noting the sense of dignity it brings to learners.
• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline: 066 487 1427.
