SEDIBENG.- The former Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Executive Mayor, Sipho Radebe, sent a heartfelt message to congratulate the local youngsters who will represent South Africa in the Fifa World Cup 2026.

The three players who are part of the Bafana Bafana 26-man squad that will do duty for the country at the biggest sporting event in the world are Relebohile Mofokeng (Sharpeville), Tshepang Moremi (Sharpeville), and Thapelo Maseko (Sebokeng).

When Radebe sent his heartfelt message to congratulate these youngsters before Bafana Bafana’s send-off match on May 29, little did he know he would soon step down as the mayor of troublesome ELM.

In the statement he sent to Sedibeng Ster Sport through his communication department, Radebe extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bafana Bafana on their journey to the Fifa World Cup scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19.

He conveyed special congratulations to Mofokeng, Moremi and Maseko on their remarkable achievement of being selected as part of the Bafana Bafana squad that will proudly represent South Africa on the global stage.

Speaking on behalf of the people of Emfuleni, Radebe expressed immense pride in the achievements of the three players, stating that their success serves as an inspiration to young people across the municipality and beyond.

“As the Executive Mayor of Emfuleni Local Municipality, I feel immensely proud of these shining stars who continue to inspire the youth of our communities through their dedication, discipline, and talent. Their success is a beacon of hope and proof that greatness can emerge from our very own townships,” said Radebe.

The municipality believes that the achievements of these young sportsmen reflect the rich talent within Emfuleni and particularly in Sharpeville and Sebokeng.

He wished the entire Bafana Bafana squad strength, unity, and success throughout the tournament as they carry the hopes and aspirations of millions of South Africans.

“Emfuleni stands proudly behind Bafana Bafana as they represent our nation on the world stage. We urge them to go out and make South Africa proud,” concluded Radebe.

Meanwhile, Bafana Bafana was supposed to fly to Mexico on Sunday, but failed due to Visa issues.

This prompted the Minister of Sports, Gayton McKenzie, to demand answers from the South African Football Association (SAFA) on why the team didn’t fly out of the country as scheduled on Sunday.

CAPTION: The former Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM) Executive Mayor Sipho Radebe sent a heartfelt message to congratulate the local youngsters who will represent South Africa in the Fifa World Cup 2026. Photos: Zacharia Nale