BLOEMFONTEIN – The new sport facility that was opened at the Credence Primary School on Monday, 2 February serves as a major facelift for the community of Heidedal, Bloemfontein. Gayton McKenzie, minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, visited the residential place for the special hand over of a multipurpose sport court and equipment sponsored by MultiChoice.
ANC ward councilor Logan Kruger said at a function held at Credence that the state-of-the-art facility would transform the community. “A son of the soil who grew up right here in Heidedal came back and is saying to the community: Here is something for you.” She said the new facility was greatly appreciated by all.
Calvo Mawela, chairperson of Canal+ Africa, said this was part of many similar projects across South Africa. “We will continue with these projects, but it is wonderful to finally open this field on the minister’s home ground,” he said.
“With these projects, we try to enrich the lives of children and give them hope.”
December Moloi, district director for the Mangaung Metro in the Department of Education, said they were humbled and grateful for this generosity. “There are so many social ills in this community.”
“The community of Heidedal battle gangsters, bullying, theft, vandalism and drugs,” said Moloi.
” Giving the children this facility will help take them away from these problems. Instead of going to the streets, they will be able to play and lead more balanced lives.” He further pleaded with the community to look after the facility and use it to its full potential, noting vandalism.
Ntombizanele Sifuba, MEC for Sport, Art, Culture and Recreation, said children needed to be developed in all areas.
“Taking part in sport does not only remove them from social ills, but can also be the beginning of a career in sport.
“Sport forms a source of income for many; it builds character.”
Sifuba also urged the community to take care and treasure this new facility.
Teams of the Heide Primary School, Olympia Primary School and Joe Solomon Primary School received new outfits and equipment at the ceremony. These equipment are vital getting children to participate and promotion of the sport.
McKenzie also attended the handing over of table tennis equipment donated to the People’s Republic of China in partnership with the South African Table Tennis Federation, to support youth and school sport development.
In addition, swimming pool equipment was handed over as part of the legacy of the 2025 National School Sport Championship.
