Day: March 15, 2026

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.