MIDDELBURG – The Eastdene Sports Stadium came alive with vibrant traditional energy on Saturday, June 21, 2024, as residents gathered to celebrate the Indigenous Games Festival. The event formed part of the Youth Day celebrations and was hosted by the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality’s Youth Department in collaboration with the Mpumalanga Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation (DSACR).
Sponsored by Blue Ribbon, the event aimed to revive cultural heritage through indigenous sporting activities, strengthen community bonds, and encourage youth participation.
Dickson Mpofu, DSACR Principal Sport Officer, explained the significance of the festival and highlighted the importance of involving local municipalities, particularly since the participants were from the Steve Tshwete area.
“This event serves as a build-up to the regional and provincial Indigenous Games. It aligns with national government priorities and is celebrated annually in September as part of Heritage Month,” said Mpofu. “Our participation here forms part of the selection process for the regional games in July and, ultimately, the national provincial event later this year. All nine provinces are expected to compete.”
Mpofu also emphasised the broader cultural impact of the games. “These activities help preserve our traditional values while fostering social cohesion and cultural tolerance among different ethnic groups. We make it a point to ensure that all genders are represented. The games promote not only physical fitness but also mental stimulation, especially for the youth,” he added.
Participant Luthando Mbatha shared her experience, saying she played Dibeke for the first time but felt instantly at home. “It didn’t feel like my first time. The team was so welcoming. I was able to connect with them and, more importantly, with myself. The experience boosted my confidence,” said Mbatha.
The Indigenous Games Festival stands as a testament to the importance of embracing and preserving cultural identity while empowering communities through sport and tradition.
