The recently concluded Inter-Municipal Sports of South Africa (IMSSA) games held in Buffalo City Metro were aimed at creating positive economic spin-offs and boosting the Metro’s businesses, tourism, and township economy.
Members from over 45 municipalities across the country affiliated with the IMSSA converged in Buffalo City for the 10th IMSSA games, played in various parts of the city until Friday, October 11.
A Buffalo City Metro (BCM) special council meeting held in September at the East London City Hall approved the hosting of the municipal games in Buffalo City, labeling the occasion as a great opportunity for the Metro to bring in a much-needed economic boost for local businesses, including small businesses operating in townships.
The week-long games, boasting over 4,000 participants, included various sporting codes such as soccer, netball, tennis, cricket, aerobics, swimming, golf, and volleyball, among others.
Buffalo City Metro spokesperson Samkelo Ngwenya remained optimistic that the recently concluded games had positive economic spin-offs and would be a major boost for local businesses, the tourism, and hospitality industry.
“There are many economic benefits brought along by hosting these games over a period of five days,” said Ngwenya.
The games resulted in increased tourism spending on accommodation, transport, shopping, and visits to heritage and attraction sites.
The Metro’s hosting of the games was also a boost to the township economy as some of the games were held in townships including Mdantsane.
The mayor welcomed all IMSSA delegates at a gala dinner held at the East London Golf Club.
She extended her deepest gratitude to the IMSSA provincial executive committee and BCM leadership for bringing the games to the Metro and thanked communities for their overwhelming support.
