The Popo Molefe Stadium in Kokosi, Fochville, is finally set to rise from the ruins, as the Merafong City Local Municipality officially plans to start the long-awaited renovation of the once-thriving community sports facility.

This stadium, once the pride of Kokosi, played host to national leaders, local soccer matches, school athletics events, and government outreach programs. Over the years, however, the stadium fell into disrepair—accelerated by poor planning and a lack of security during the Covid-19 lockdown. In 2017, a netball court was controversially constructed on the athletics track due to limited space, further diminishing the stadium’s functionality.

By 2024, nearly all infrastructure had been stripped. The pavilion, restrooms, guard house, and fencing were all destroyed or stolen, leaving the stadium in a state of complete neglect.

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However, there is now hope for revival.

Municipal spokesperson Temba Fezani confirmed that a service provider has been appointed to lead the Popo Molefe Stadium refurbishment project, and the process of selecting subcontractors is currently underway.

Although the exact timeline for completion has not yet been announced, the launch of this project signals a long-overdue investment in local infrastructure and youth development through sport.

Residents of Kokosi and surrounding communities now wait eagerly to see this iconic Fochville venue return to its former glory.