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Sibongiseni Khamlana praises La Liga's initiative for empowering young girls in football

Phiri Cawe|Published

Football coach and former Banyana Banyana player Sibongiseni Khamlana is impressed with initiatives directed to girls in townships and poor communities.

Image: Phiri Cawe

Former Banyana Banyana player Sibongiseni Khamlana is thrilled that there are soccer programmes directed mainly at girls.

Speaking during the La Liga Foundation tournament in Century City on the International Day of the Girl Child, the Samora Machel resident and Cape Peninsula University of Technology women's coach highlighted the importance of such initiatives.

"It is good that a top league like La Liga can create relevant spaces for girls that are not only beneficial for them but also for future generations," she said.

The highly anticipated inaugural season of the Mzansi Equality League officially kicked off in Century City on Saturday, October 11, marking a significant moment in South African football and youth empowerment.

This six-week tournament, backed by Fundación LaLiga and LaLiga South Africa, offers young girls a unique opportunity to develop leadership skills, positively impact their communities, and showcase their talent on the pitch.

At the launch, hundreds of girls competed against each other in this initiative designed specifically for them. Coach Khamlana said: "Women’s soccer is lacking support in the country. I think it is good because it is not always easy for women to get a chance like this. It will also help these players become educated and motivated. It is important for South African players. We are lacking in life skills. This is a good initiative for young girls."

Ms Khamlana said that for girls from poor backgrounds and with limited resources in townships, the LaLiga initiative comes at a crucial time to transform lives and shape their futures.

Former La Liga player Tresor Penku, managing director of La Liga Africa, said he was proud of being part of such a meaningful cause.

"We are proud to contribute to the development of sport and to have an impact on youth through football. The Mzansi Equality League is an example of how collaboration and the power of sport can bring about social change," he said.

He emphasised that the initiative is creating new opportunities for young women in South Africa, just as it has in Cameroon and Kenya.

The girls ended the day in high spirits, singing and dancing as they returned home after some intensive and competitive games.