by Ntokozo Simelane

Community Clubs boots out Schools in the PG Bison Tournament.

MKHONDO — In a major shake-up for local sports, the Mkhondo Netball Association has officially taken over all netball activities for the upcoming PG Bison Fam-Fest Community Sports Tournament. Set to take place this Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Kempville Stadium, this year’s edition marks a historic milestone: for the first time in the tournament’s four-year history, local community netball clubs will compete, while school teams have been booted from the roster.

Historically, the Association’s role was limited to behind-the-scenes support—providing umpires, keeping scorecards, and drawing fixtures for the schools. Now, they are stepping into the spotlight to run the show. The decision to exclude schools stems from a lack of long-term sports development. Over the past four years, participating schools struggled to maintain active play after the PG Bison Fam-Fest Cup concluded. Furthermore, prize money won in previous tournaments was often redirected toward purchasing stationery and other school necessities rather than being reinvested into sports activities. The saddest part is that none of the schools have a netball court or any other sport facility within the school yards.

“We spoke to PG Bison about netball development in Mkhondo and they listened.”

The changes were confirmed during a recent meeting between the Association and the Community Liaison Office responsible for organizing the annual tournament. Speaking to Diski99 Sports News, Mkhondo Netball Association Chairperson Mr. Sbonelo Shiba could not hide his enthusiasm about the takeover. “Yes, we have been given the opportunity to include our teams that play the local netball league. We will be having eight of our best teams competing on Saturday,” Shiba confirmed. Detailing how the decision came about after last year’s games, he added, “We spoke to PG Bison about Netball development in Mkhondo and they listened. We explained to them how including our teams will help us grow and develop netball in Mkhondo.”

Leveling the Playing Field

The Mkhondo Netball League, which plays once a quarter, has historically been plagued by financial hurdles, with the majority of teams struggling to afford playing kits, bibs, and transportation. This tournament promises to temporarily end those struggles, offering clubs the resources and platform they deserve.

This inclusion also brings netball on par with local football. Since the tournament’s inception, the Mkhondo Local Football Association has fielded eight teams from the Mkhondo Promotion League, resulting in tremendous improvements in competition and football development. The local netball fraternity is hopeful that community clubs will reap those same benefits starting this weekend.

Action from the 2025 edition of the PG Bison Fam-Fest netball tournament which played on Saturday 10 May 2025 at Kempville Court in Mkhondo. This year the tournament has been opened to community teams.

The 2026 Tournament Draw

Fans heading to Kempville Stadium on Saturday morning can expect some of the best netball ever witnessed in Mkhondo. The eight participating clubs have been drawn into two highly competitive pools. Pool A contains some of the top-heavyweight teams in Mkhondo, this group is guaranteed to deliver fierce competition. Headlined by last year’s most improved team the Dolphins NC, this group is looking just as thrilling.

The tournament will follow a round-robin format within the pools. The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages, battling it out in the semi-finals for a spot in the grand finale. The action-packed day will conclude with the highly anticipated final match, followed immediately by a prize-giving ceremony.

Pool A: The “Pool of Death” (home address in brackets)

  1. Rockstars NC (Thandukukhanya)
  2. Mvelo Queens NC (KwaThandeka Location, Amsterdam)
  3. Troublemakers NC (Daliya, Iswepe)
  4. Highlanders NC (Ajax) – Vumbuka Trust Cup 2025 Champions

Pool B: The Contenders (home address in brackets)

  1. Dolphins NC (Phola Park, Thandukukhanya)
  2. Libhaba NC (Commondale)
  3. Young Stars NC (Mabola/Dirkiesdorp)
  4. Thembalethu NC (Belfast/Sgudada)
Proper planning: The fixtures for the 2026 edition have been done early by the Mkhondo Netball Association which is one of new ideas to make the tournament exciting.

by Ntokozo Simelane

Mkhondo Total Football United Unbeaten as Regional League Hits Easter Break

As the 2025/26 Hollywoodbets Regional League season is on pause for the Easter holidays, the race for the Stream B1 title is shaping up to be a thrilling contest. With action set to resume on Sunday, April 12, 2026, teams have a brief window to regroup before the final push toward the playoffs.

The league, primarily comprising 15 teams drawn from the Msukaligwa and Mkhondo Local Municipalities in the Gert Sibande Region, offers a massive prize at end of season. The winner of Stream B1 will face off against the Stream B2 champions, with the ultimate victor securing a spot in the Provincial Playoffs and a coveted chance for promotion to the Provincial ABC Motsepe League.

The Title Contenders

Mkhondo Total Football United FC is currently setting the gold standard. Hailing from Thandukukhanya Township in Mkhondo, they sit comfortably at the top of the log with 44 points from 18 games. In their third season in the league—having originally earned promotion via the Mkhondo Promotional League Playoffs—they are entirely unbeaten, boasting 13 wins and 5 draws. After a strong 2nd place finish in the 2024/25 season, they look determined to go all the way this year.

Breathing down their necks in second place is Somhlolo United with 40 points. The seasoned campaigners from Lothair (Chief Albert Luthuli Local Municipality) finished 3rd last season after a dedicated rebuilding phase. With a game in hand over the leaders, Somhlolo remains a massive threat to Total Football United’s title ambitions.

Rounding out the top three is Afro Sporting FC (31 points). Based in Ermelo within the Msukaligwa Local Municipality, they have assembled an exciting, technically gifted young squad. Their push up the table has been notably bolstered by the strategic addition of talented players formerly of VOC FM Superstars.

The Breathalyzer Controversy

The 2025/26 season hasn’t been without its drama. Earlier in the campaign at match day no. 5, the league’s stability was tested by a highly unusual and controversial incident involving VOC FM Superstars, which ultimately led to the club abandoning the league.

The dispute ignited during a match between VOC FM Superstars and current log leaders Mkhondo Total Football United FC. Trailing 3-2, VOC FM Superstars accused the match referee of officiating under the influence of alcohol and sensationally demanded the referee take a breathalyzer test on the pitch.

Following the incident, the league’s disciplinary committee found VOC FM Superstars guilty of improper conduct toward a match official, handing them a R5,000 fine. The situation deteriorated when the club accused the league of withholding their prize money while simultaneously expecting them to pay the fines. The bitter standoff resulted in VOC FM Superstars officially withdrawing from the league, leaving their record wiped clean from the current standings. The link for the latest log standings can be found here..Hollywoodbets Regional League 2025/2026 B1 | Diski99 Sports News

by Ntokozo Simelane

Countdown Begins: PG Bison Gears Up Kempville Stadium for 5th Community Sports Tournament in Mkhondo.

MKHONDO – The countdown is officially on! With exactly a month to go, preparations for the highly anticipated 5th edition of the PG Bison Community Sports Tournament are in full swing at the historic Kempville Stadium.

Set to kick off on Saturday, 18 April 2026, the two-day sporting spectacle will bring together eight football clubs and eight netball teams for a weekend of fierce local competition and community celebration. The tournament marks a proud return to glory for Kempville Stadium, a venue famous in the 1990s for hosting high-profile reserve matches for football giants like Kaizer Chiefs FC and Mamelodi Sundowns FC.

Breathing New Life into Kempville Stadium

To ensure an unforgettable experience for both players and fans, the hosts PG Bison is spearheading major maintenance and upliftment projects at the venue. Upgrades are already underway, including the installation of a Jojo tank to ensure reliable pitch irrigation and a steady water supply for the change rooms. The netball courts are also receiving a restoration, complete with weed removal, fence repairs, and a fresh coat of paint on the court surface.

Action from the 2025 PG Bison Fam-Fest Final between Citizen FC (maroon) vs Rangers FC (green) which played on 11 May 2025 at Kempville Stadium. Citizen FC walked away as champions after a 2-1 win.

PG Bison’s Community Liaison Officer, Miss Sanelisiwe Cele, emphasized the company’s commitment to elevating the tournament’s standard this year: “We want travellers on the N2 road to have a clear view of the stadium when passing through. The grass must be neatly cut all round. The change rooms will be painted to give it a glamorous look; the players must feel happy and proud while preparing to enter the field.”

Unprecedented Support for Local Talent

PG Bison’s dedication to Mkhondo’s sports development goes far beyond venue maintenance. This year, the company is pulling out all the stops for the participants. All 18 participating teams (including the legends squads) will receive, full playing attire, a match ball, free transportation to and from the venue, and full catering over the two-day event for participants. Members of the public will be allowed to open food stalls and sell to the fans with the support of PG Bison.

In an exciting twist, the teams that battle their way to the finals will be rewarded with a brand-new, secondary set of playing attire specifically for the final match. Champions will walk away R10 000 richer in the bank for winning the netball and football final.

PG Bison contractors welding in the pump support steel below the Jojo tank at the Kempville Stadium on Tuesday 17 March 2026. The tank will help in times of water shortages and irrigation of the pitch.

Road to the Tournament: Who Will Compete?

The Football Draw

The eight football slots are highly competitive and will be awarded to the current leaders of the Mkhondo Promotion League 2025/26 season as administered by the Mkhondo Local Football Association. TheCut-off Date for qualifying is Sunday, 5 April 2026 which will be followed by the draw on Tuesday 7 April 2026. The participating Leagues come from Amsterdam, Driefontein, Ngema-Dirkiesdorp, Simakade, Sinethemba Driefontein, Thandukukhanya, UHlelo, and the newly formed Ward 2 Promotion League.

The Netball Lineup

The netball division will showcase the best young talent from local schools. The eight confirmed school teams are:

  • Amadlelo Aluhlaza
  • Kempsiding Combined
  • Ndlela Secondary
  • Nqubeko Secondary
  • PR Combined School
  • Salem Combined
  • Ubuhlebuzile Secondary
  • Umlilo Combined School

Match Weekend Schedule

Saturday, 18 April 2026: Opening rounds for both sports, concluding with the crowning of the Netball Champions later that afternoon.

Sunday, 19 April 2026: Football semi-finals and finals.

Fans attending on Sunday are in for a special treat: a highly anticipated Legends Match featuring a PG Bison team taking on a local Masters team, serving as the official curtain-raiser before the main football final.

Don’t miss out on the action—join us at Kempville Stadium this April to support Mkhondo’s finest sports talent!

by Ntokozo Simelane

MPUMALANGA SPORT CONFEDERATION WELCOMES THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE 2026 PREMIER’S CUP

MBOMBELA, MPUMALANGA – The Mpumalanga Sport Confederation (MSC) enthusiastically welcomes and commends the recent decision by the Provincial Executive Council (EXCO) to approve the staging of the 2026 Mpumalanga Premier’s Cup.

This announcement marks a significant milestone for the province, positioning the Premier’s Cup as the flagship fixture on our sporting calendar. The MSC views this as a bold step toward revitalizing local sports and providing our athletes with the high-profile platform they deserve.

Commending Progressive Leadership

We wish to express our profound gratitude to the Premier of Mpumalanga for his visionary leadership. His commitment to utilizing sport as a vehicle for social transformation is evident in this initiative. By championing this tournament, the Premier has demonstrated a “people-first” approach to governance, ensuring that sport remains a cornerstone of community health and provincial pride. This announcement comes after MSC and Federations resolved to explore an initiative have an Icon sporting event in the province.

A Catalyst for Development

The 2026 Premier’s Cup is not merely a series of matches; it is a comprehensive developmental tool. The MSC is particularly encouraged by the EXCO’s instruction to include diverse disciplines:

  • Soccer & Netball: Strengthening our core sporting codes across all districts.
  • Boxing & Indigenous Games: Celebrating our heritage and providing a stage for often-overlooked talent.
  • Rural Outreach: Prioritizing talent identification and scouting for children in our rural communities.

A Collaborative Effort

To ensure this tournament lives up to its “Premier” status, the Mpumalanga Sport Confederation will work hand-in-hand with the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation (DCSR) and all relevant Sport Federations.

We are ready to hit the ground running. Through this collaboration, we will ensure that the technical delivery of the tournament meets the highest standards, ensuring that July 2026 becomes a month where the ‘Magic of the Sun’ truly shines through our athletes.”

The MSC remains dedicated to supporting the Provincial Government’s investment in youth development and social cohesion. We look forward to a tournament that will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Media Enquiries:

Xolani Gumede at 082 484 0622

by Ntokozo Simelane

Vumbuka Trust Launches 2026 Community Drive with R1 Million pledge.

Mkhondo –The Vumbuka Trust officially launched its annual Community Social Initiative on Tuesday 10 March 2026 at the posh Wilverdiend Wedding and Events venue, reaffirming its long-term commitment to local development. The event served to showcase the Trust’s Socio-Economic and Enterprise Development programmes for the year. They also distributed application forms to community members and organisations.

Twenty-seven schools participating in the Vumbuka Trust garden competition were honoured. Qalani Lower Primary School from Saul Mkhizeville and Sibahle Primary School from Nkonjaneni shared first place in the garden category, each walking away with R40 000. Matshamhlophe Primary School from Commondale took third place, followed by Welgevond Primary School in fourth and Cabangani Primary School in fifth.

“We are committed as the Vumbuka Trust to help with the development of Mkhondo. We will be here for a very long time helping one another.”

The Trust pledged R1 million to be distributed among approved beneficiaries and presented certificates of recognition to long-standing beneficiaries for their consistent performance. Among the recipients was the Mkhondo Local Football Association, which has partnered with the Trust for 13 years. Since 2014 the association has hosted the annual Vumbuka Trust Cup football tournament featuring six divisions: U13 Boys, U15 Boys, U15 Girls, U17 Boys, Senior Ladies and the Mkhondo Promotion League.

The Trust also support the Mkhondo Netball Association, funding league prizes for the Mkhondo Netball League winners and the annual Vumbuka Trust Netball Tournament. The Trust Chairperson Mrs Jolly Mokorosi delivered a heartfelt address, emphasising the organisation’s dedication to Mkhondo’s growth. “We are committed as Vumbuka Trust to assist with the development of Mkhondo Local Municipality and its people. Vumbuka Trust will be here for a very long time helping one another,” she said. “We also appreciate the role that has been played by our beneficiaries in keeping the spirit of community development alive.”

Mkhondo LFA received a certificate of appreciation at The Vumbuka Trust annual function held on 10 March 2026 at Wilverdiend Guest House, Mkhondo.

Applications for the 2026 Socio-Economic and Enterprise Development funding are now open to community organisations working in sports, arts & culture, conservation, small business development and support, education, food security initiatives including social support (e.g. substance abuse prevention). Individuals and organisations must complete the official application form and submit it by Friday 10 April 2026 at 17:00. The Vumbuka Trust remains fully committed to driving sustainable development across agriculture, small business, sports, arts and culture in Mkhondo for many years to come.



by Ntokozo Simelane

Hollywoodbets Regional League 2024/2025: The Final Showdown as Champions are to Be Crowned Today

It’s the final day of the Hollywoodbets Regional League 2024/2025 season in the Gert Sibande Region, and the race for the Stream B1 and B2 titles is going down to the wire. With both league streams yet to crown their champions, today promises thrilling football action as the region discovers its heroes.

Stream B1: A Goal Difference Showdown

In Stream B1, Amsterdam United FC lead the pack on goal difference and face a tough challenge against Mpumalanga Arrows FC at Mpumalanga Stadium, Ermelo. They have collected 57 points in 25 matches played, having won 17, drew 6 and lost only 2 games. A win will secure their title, but the Arrows are ready to play spoilers. Amsterdam United FC is led by an experienced campaigner Mr. Sibusiso “Rare” Nkwanyana who led the now defunct Flymingo United FC to the ABC Motsepe League. The manager coach of the team believes it is his time to shine again in the big stage.

“That is how we going to win this season league, ngizobadla bethembile”

He told us that he respects his rivals to the league, but they will not get it. “We will fight for the league until the end; our rivals will think they have a shot at it until the last day. That is how we going to win this season league, ngizobadla bethembile” he said. This he told us a couple of months ago when he was still leading both VOC Superstars FC and Mkhondo Total Football United FC by 4 points.

Today, hot on their heels, second-placed Total Football United FC, trailing only on goal difference, take on Breyten Stars FC at Mandla Magudulela Stadium, Thandukukhanya. They have 57 points after 25 matches having won 17, drew 6 and lost only 2 games against VOC Superstars FC and Breyten Stars FC in the first round. Seventh placed Breyten Stars are no pushovers, and fans can expect a fiery, end-to-end clash as Total Football fight to steal the crown.

Stream B2: A Do-or-Die Derby

In Stream B2, Mpuluzi Gunners FC hold a three-point lead at the top and face their arch-rivals Ravens FC in a high-stakes showdown at Nhlazatshe No.2 Ground, Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. The Gunners need only a draw to clinch the title, but Ravens FC are on a mission. Sitting second, Ravens FC must win by at least two goals to leapfrog Mpuluzi Gunners and claim the championship. Fresh off a 10-0 demolition of fifth-placed Elukwatini Rovers FC, Ravens are brimming with confidence, and their razor-close goal difference keeps the pressure on. Kuzoba tough!

What would be Next?

The champions of Stream B1 and B2 will lock horns in a Positional Playoff to determine the overall Stream B winner of the Gert Sibande Region. The stakes don’t end there—the Stream A and B champions will represent the region at the Provincial Playoffs, vying for promotion to the prestigious ABC Motsepe League for the 2025/2026 season. The stage is set, the fans are buzzing, and the players are ready. Akukadlalwa, kusazodlalwa! Stay tuned for what promises to be a dramatic finale to the Hollywoodbets Regional League season.

The latest results, upciming fixtures and log standings of the Hollywoodbets Regional League 2024/2025 season in the Gert Sibande Region of Mpumalanga.
by Ntokozo Simelane

Media Statement: Mpumalanga Sports Confederation Executive Committee Induction and Strategic Workshop

The Mpumalanga Sports Confederation (MSC) recently hosted a successful executive committee induction and strategic workshop, bringing together newly elected executive committee and board members. The workshop, held after the election of the new executive members on 1 February 2025, at Nkangala Middleburg, aimed to capacitate and equip the team with the necessary knowledge and skills to drive sports development and high performance programs in the province.

The workshop featured presentations from key stakeholders, including CoSACSA Mpumalanga, University of Mpumalanga, SASCOC, and Gauteng Sports Confederation.

The topics covered included:

– Forging relationships and collaborations between stakeholders and MSC.

– Sport program integration and community sports.

– The plight of athletes and well-being.

– High-performance sports and the road to LA 2028 Olympics.

– Good practices in collaborations with DCSR on sports delivery.

– Plans for the 2025/2026 financial year and areas of collaboration.

– Roles of the executive board and policies.

The workshop concluded with a clear plan and strategic pillars for the MSC next 4 years in the office. Mr. Linda Zwane, re-elected president of Mpumalanga Sports Confederation, stated, “This workshop marks the beginning of a new era for sports in Mpumalanga, with a new focus on collaborations, strategic planning, and athlete development. The MSC is committed to working closely with stakeholders to promote sports development and excellence in the province. With our plans to benchmark with Gauteng and Western Cape, we are confident that it will surely assist in growing the numbers of athletes that will be coming from the province to be part of the LA Olympics 2028.”

The MSC is excited about the new chapter in sports development in Mpumalanga and looks forward to working with all stakeholders to achieve its goals.

About Mpumalanga Sports Confederation

The Mpumalanga Sports Confederation is a provincial governing body for sports in Mpumalanga, aimed at promoting sports development and excellence in the province.

For more information, please contact

Xolani P. Gumede

MSC Communication Convener

082 484 0622

by Ntokozo Simelane

Mkhondo Promotion League 2024/25 Season Heats Up: Teams battle for promotion to the regional league

The Mkhondo Promotion League 2024/25 season is heating up right at the beginning. The league, which operates across six different Sub LFAs under the Mkhondo Local Football Association, began shortly after the completion of The Vumbuka Trust Cup on October 20, 2024. The teams currently at the top of the standings will be vying to maintain their position until March/April next year, aiming to qualify for the prestigious PG Bison Community Cup.

Additionally, there’s the opportunity to represent their respective Sub LFA at the Mkhondo Promotional Playoffs, where the champions will earn promotion to the higher Hollywoodbets Regional League. The competitiveness of the league is fueled by the lucrative PG Bison Community Cup, which has become a crucial date on the Mkhondo football calendar. Teams are guaranteed a brand-new kit, transport, catering, medical services, and prize money for the tournament, which motivates every team to compete fiercely. Qualification is contingent on remaining at the top of the league standings. The second-place finishers from the Thandukukhanya (16 teams) and Drifontein Sub LFAs (14 teams) will also qualify for the tournament due to the larger number of participating teams in their respective leagues. The other Sub LFAs from Amsterdam, Ngema-Dirkiesdorp, Simakade, and Uhlelo will each have one representative in the top eight tournament.

It promises to be a highly competitive season, with special projects men (muti men) eagerly awaiting the opportunity to showcase their powers.

As of today, Ambitious Aces FC and Young Tigers FC are leading the Amsterdam Promotion League table, each collecting 6 points from 2 games. The serial league winners, Amabhubesi FC, are also in contention with 3 points from one match. In the Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Promotion League, Mandela Cross FC and Kunene FC are leading the pack with 9 points after three matches. They are closely followed by 2024/25 league champions Juventus FC and 2024 Vumbuka Trust Cup champions Atletico Madrid FC. This league is shaping up to be the most competitive under the Mkhondo Promotion League for the 2024/25 season.

Action from the Thandukukhanya Promotion League 2024/2025 season match between First Touch Football FC and Mkhondo Sundowns FC which played on 27 October 2024 at Masenkeni Stadium, Thandukukhanya. First Touch Football won the match match 2-1.

Rangers FC, favored in the Simakade Promotion League, currently leads with 9 points after three matches, followed by Peacemakers FC with 7 points, and Bayern FC, the Vumbuka Trust Cup champions, with 4 points. In the Uhlelo Promotion League, Two 4 Joy FC is eager to maintain their lead until the arrival of the PG Bison Cup, which serves as motivation for their participation. They have a perfect record, sharing the top spot with Ward 6 Brazilians FC in second place. Goodwill Promising FC follows with 6 points, having lost only once to the league leaders, who defeated them 3-1.

The Thandukukhanya Promotion League, which has the largest number of teams, is led by PR Barcelona FC, who have accumulated 12 points from four matches in the 16-team league. They are trailed by First Touch Football with 11 points after five matches, while Comet Riders FC and Citizen FC are tied in third and fourth place, each with 10 points.

The Drifontein Promotion League, the sixth Sub LFA in the Mkhondo Promotion League for the 2024/25 season, has yet to start its matches. This Sub LFA is making a return to the Mkhondo Local Football Association for the first time since the 2019/2020 season. They are expected to kick off next weekend with fourteen (14) teams sharing the Fast IX and Champion Grounds in Saul Mkhizeville. The league season is poised to conclude in the second week of May 2025, followed by the Mkhondo Promotional Playoffs, where all six champions will compete for promotion to the higher Hollywoodbets Regional League.

It promises to be a highly competitive season, with special projects men (muti men) eagerly awaiting the opportunity to showcase their powers and help their teams secure victory at all costs.

by admin

Vumbuka Trust Cup 2023 celebrates 10 Years.

The Vumbuka Trust will be sponsoring Mkhondo Local Football Association through The Vumbuka Trust Cup for the 10th time this season. In addition the trust itself is celebrating 10 years of existence as a shareholding partner at TWK. To celebrate this milestone The Vumbuka Trust increased its sponsorship to a whooping R180 000 for the multi division football tournament. The sponsorship value has increased with almost 1500% when compared to the 1st edition sponsorship value 10 years ago. The first ever edition was sponsored with R12000, and it had a single division i.e. Promotion League, the tournament now carries six (6) divisions.

The 2023 tournament began on on Saturday 28 October 2023 with the under 13 development league divisions consisting of fourteen (14) teams. The Under 15 (14 teams), and the Under 17 divisions (18 teams) will kick off on 04 November 2023. There will also be seven (7) teams in the Under 15 girls division also playing on Saturday. The girls will play in a round-robin format and then play knockout in the semi-final stage. The senior ladies division teams have been drawn from the Mkhondo Ladies League 2023/24 which began in September 2023 with seven teams. They will kick of their round robin of two groups on Saturday 11 November 2023.

The men’s division teams have been drawn from the Mkhondo Promotion League 2023/24 season. A total of 66 teams are expected to be part of the 2023 edition. The participating clubs come from different areas of the Mkhondo Local Municipality that are playing league football under the Mkhondo Local Football Association. The clubs are affiliated with the Mkhondo LFA through seven (7) Sub LFAs i.e. Ngema-Dirkiesdorp Sub LFA, Simakade Sub LFA, Saul Mkhizeville (Old Stand) Sub LFA, Sinethemba Driefontein Sub LFA, Sulphur Springs Sub LFA, Thandukukhanya Sub LFA, and the newly launched UHlelo Sub LFA. It is not clear if the Amsterdam & Commondale Sub LFAs will take part at this year’s tournament as they are yet to pay the required affiliation fee to the association. Each Sub LFA will have to produce a champion team to represent it at the main finals.

The tournament will wrap up with an all-day football finals extravaganza starting with the Under 13 division and closing with the senior’s final at 3pm on Sunday 19 November 2023 at Mandla Magudulela Stadium, Thandukukhanya. Prizes for the tournament include cash, playing kits, match balls and training equipment for all runners up in all divisions. To date The Vumbuka Trust has distributed more than forty (40) playing jerseys to different champions over the years. The success of the tournament has resulted in the increase of league participation by clubs based in the Mkhondo Local Municipality jurisdiction. UHlelo Sub LFA has joined the Mkhondo LFA by affiliating to the association and will be part of the 2023 tournament. The Sub LFA is based at Ward 4,6& 8 in the Mkhondo Local Municipality.  

by admin

UHlelo lukaGod. New league stream ready for kick off.

The 2023/24 Mkhondo Promotional League season will open with a new league stream as an addition to the existing Mkhondo Local Football Association league streams. The inaugural UHlelo Promotion League is expected to kick off on Sunday 22 October 2023 at Rustplaas, Maphepheni & Ajax Village. The league will be administered by an executive committee to be known as the UHlelo Sub Local Football Association.

The Sub LFA consist of clubs from four wards under the Mkhondo Local Municipality jurisdictional area i.e. Ward 4, 6&8. The clubs come from the villages of Ajax, Daliya, Derby, Ezakheni, Iswepe, New Home, Maphepheni, Rustplaas and Sgudada. The clubs have affiliated to the Mkhondo Local Football Association but will compete separately under the banner of UHlelo Promotion League consisting of fourteen (14) clubs. They will participate in all competitions under the control of the Mkhondo LFA and will also be allowed to host own tournaments.

The league winners will form part of the Mkhondo Promotional Playoffs where all the Mkhondo champions meet for a 2 days tournament. Some of the exciting tournaments include The Vumbuka Trust Cup which will be playing for the 10th season this year, the annual Vusi Motha Xmas Challenge in December and the lucrative PG Bison Knockout Cup.

There will be no home and away hosting in the first season, matches will be played at four (4) identified grounds. The grounds will be increased in the following season when the league has established itself. The chairperson of the league Mr. Pitso Mpungose explained the decision. “We have a challenge of referees at the moment. We will use the start of the season to recruit referees. Once we have recruited enough referees then we will add more grounds. We also want to limit the number of grounds for easy monitoring of games by the new committee,” he said.

Representatives of clubs from UHlelo Sub Local Football Association listening attentively at the meeting of the association held at Maphepheni Community Office on Freedom Day 27 April 2023.

The Executive committee members were elected to lead the new Sub LFA early on April 27, 2023 at Maphepheni. Seventeen (17) clubs were present at the launch meeting of the Sub LFA where they decided to play league football. The name UHlelo is derived from the river that crosses in between the rural villages of Ward 4, 6&8. The new league begins on Sunday 22 October 2023 with matches playing at Ajax Ground, Maphepheni and Rustplaas Ground, Mkhondo.

The Executive Committeee consist of the following members: 1. Mr. Pitso Mpungose – Chairperson 2. Mr. Mdu Khumalo – 1st Deputy Chairperson 3. Mr. Bonginkosi Ngwenya – 2nd Deputy Chairperson (Treasurer) 4. Mr. Thokozani Mkhulisi – Secretary 5. Mr. Nathi Khumalo – Deputy Secretary.

The executive committee was elected by the following founding clubs:

1. Arsenal Eagles FC from Ajax Village 2. Ajax Bayern Munich FC from Ajax Village

3. Ajax Sweepers FC from Ajax Village 4. Doctor pols FC from Ajax Village

5. Goodwill Promising FC from eMaphepheni 6. India kilo FC from eMaphepheni

7. Khumalo Stars FC from Rustplaas 8. Mjomane Swallows FC from Sgudada

9. Nathi lions FC from Daliya 10. United Boyz from Ezakheni

11. United Brothers FC from Nkonjaneni 12. Two For Joy FC from Halangenkani

13. Ward 6 Brazilian FC from Derby 14. New Home FC from New Home.

Liyasha eMkhondo!!!