By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe and Kopano Dibakwane
Linda Zwane has emerged with a renewed mandate to take provincial sport development to higher heights, following his re-election as president of the MSC(Mpumalanga Sport Confederation) for another four-year term, in a ceremony held at Middleburg Regional Library, last weekend.
Zwane’s extensive experience as a seasoned sport administrator will come in handy when he embarks on the mammoth task of ensuring that Mpumalanga athletes shine on the national and international stages, particularly in several high-profile tournaments on the horizon, such as world cups and Olympic Games.
He once played as a footballer for Botleng Classic FC and also tried his hand in coaching.
His impressive journey in sport administration started in 1996, and so far, he has served as vice-president of SAFA(South African Football Association), SAFA Nkangala president, president and secretary for Victor Khanye Local Football Association, South African Sports Confederation, as well as board member for the Olympic Committee.
“ I am humbled by the confidence the membership of MSC has shown in me. I don’t take their support for granted. This is a sign of confidence of the work I had been doing,” said Zwane on his re-election.
He emphasised the importance of athlete support and federation development programs as key factors in supporting the vision by MSC to ensure that Mpumalanga is well-represented in the squads and teams that will qualify for tournaments such as 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2027 Rugby World Cup, 2027 AFCON(African Cup of Nations) and 2027 Cricket World Cup.
“ To us, the first thing we want to do right is athlete support so that we make a meaningful contribution to the LA 2028 Summer Olympics target. We also want to make sure federations are supported for development programmes,” said Zwane.
Mpumalanga MEC for Culture, Sport and Recreation-Leah Mabuza, said her Department is fully behind Zwane and the MSC committee.
“ The Department has the responsibility of developing sport throughout the province, and our work was made easier by the formidable structures such as Mpumalanga Sport Confederation. We also wish to extend our profound thanks to all affiliates who are playing a key role in the delivery of sport programmes in the province,” said MEC Mabuza.
The full MSC Committee includes:
• President: Linda Zwane
• First Vice-President: Sergeant Skosana
• Second Vice-President: Christel van Wetten
• Additional Members: Jabu Nzima, Xolani Gumede, Eunice Sibeko, Melony Degenaar, Cylvia Pieterse, MS Maribe, Emile van Veenhuyzen, George Stanton, and Oupa Zitha.
