Delegates at the iLembe Sport Indaba tackled rural support gaps and unfair selection, adopting key resolutions to boost talent, funding and community participation.

The two-day event, held on October 3 and 4 at the Hampshire Hotel in Ballito, brought together key stakeholders from the Department of Sport, iLembe Sports Confederation, local municipalities and Salga KZN.

The Indaba resolved to create a transparent and fair framework for selecting athletes and teams for the 2025 Salga Games, ensuring that only the district’s best talent is represented.

A permanent Sports Stakeholder Forum will be established to foster collaboration among municipalities, federations, clubs and key partners. In addition, a comprehensive funding strategy will support development programmes, elite athletes and infrastructure improvements across the district.

Community Services senior manager Phumzile Mbonambi said the Indaba aimed to move stakeholders away from working in silos and towards stronger collaboration.

Youth sub-committee chairperson, councillor Sicelo Sithole, highlighted sport’s social value and said investing in sports development is investing in the future.

Economic development and planning portfolio chair councillor Hlengiwe Makhatha called for fairness in athlete selection, stressing that iLembe is “rich in talent that deserves to be developed.”

The final session outlined a logistical roadmap for the 2025 Salga Games, signalling the district’s readiness for the sporting campaign.

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