The calls of an anxious community have finally been addressed. Matsulu Stadium, which had been left to rot for over a decade, is getting a R44m facelift.

On Tuesday, January 27, the executive mayor of the City of Mbombela, Sibongile Makushe-Mazibuko, handed over the facility to a contracted service provider for the upgrade. The project is expected to take more than 10 months.

The mayor said the scope of work for the project includes construction of changing rooms with walkways, a steel grandstand, ablution facilities, administration and ticketing buildings, medium pressure pipelines, a security room, general parking, stormwater drainage, and minor electrical and mechanical work.

ALSO READ: MEC for education urges Mpumalanga Regional Training Trust to aid the youth

This is the only recreational facility available to the booming township. Makushe-Mazibuko assured the community that their sporting dreams and lifestyles will be revived.

Complaints about the dilapidated stadium date back to 2018. This publication had reported on concerns raised about overgrown bushes, water shortages, and safety issues.

The community had gone beyond its means to keep the field maintained for youngsters to play rugby and soccer, and train for athletics. Residents initially contributed money to maintain the grass, but eventually could not keep up.

ALSO READ: Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature involves community on Public Service Commission Bill

In February 2025, ActionSA’s member of the provincial legislature, Thoko Mashiane, demanded accountability for the abandonment of the stadium. She said public funds were allocated for this project, yet there was no evidence of proper expenditure or progress.

“This failure not only denies local youth opportunities for development, but also reflects the broader crisis of financial mismanagement and lack of accountability in government. The people of Matsulu deserve better,” she stated.