The Makana Local Football Association (LFA) has a new executive committee, elected on May 27 at Duna Library Hall. The election was presided over by Andile Marasi, regional treasurer of Sarah Baartman's. Afika Adam, the current chairman, and Akhona Heshu, the secretary, have retained their positions. New members, including Asanda Koliti, Nomvuyiseko Ndawuni, and Siyabonga Zondani, have been added as deputy chairpersons. Siyabonga Dumiso has also returned to the committee as treasurer.
The newly elected committee has brought renewed hope to local football fans. With a mix of experienced and new members, fans are optimistic about the changes this committee can bring. The LFA is set to host the annual Makana Heritage Tournament, which will take place on Heritage Day, September 24. This year's edition is open to teams from outside Makhanda and non-affiliate teams, increasing the competition and excitement.
The Makana Heritage Tournament has a rich history, with Jacaranda Aces being the current defending champions. XI Attackers FC, who won the first edition, and Maru FC, Makhanda's top side, will also be participating. The tournament has attracted huge crowds to JD Dlepu Stadium in the past, thanks in part to the sponsorship of Mr. D. Mzileni. The stakes are high, and fans are eager to see how the new committee will manage the tournament.
One of the key issues that the new committee will need to address is the refereeing problem. In the past, players have taken on the role of match officials, which has led to concerns about biased officiating. The committee will need to ensure that proper measures are in place to prevent any issues that could affect the integrity of the tournament.
The Makana LFA committee recently attended the Sarah Baartman region's elective congress in Alexandria. However, the congress was marred by controversy when a suspicious report from the auditors was presented, claiming that some LFAs, including Blue Crane and Dr Beyers Naude, were not members in good standing. The committee has expressed concerns about the chaos that ensued and the impact it had on the congress.
Afika Adam has promised local football fans that the newly elected committee will work hard to improve the standard and image of local football. He also thanked Mr. D. Mzileni for his continued sponsorship of the Makana Heritage Tournament. With a new committee in place, fans are hopeful that football in Makhanda will experience a resurgence.
The newly elected committee has a challenging task ahead of them, but with their combined experience and new perspectives, they are well-equipped to tackle the issues facing local football. As the Makana Heritage Tournament approaches, all eyes will be on the committee to see how they manage the event and address the concerns of local football fans.
Key points
- The Makana LFA has a new executive committee, elected on May 27, with Afika Adam and Akhona Heshu retaining their positions as chairman and secretary.
- The annual Makana Heritage Tournament will take place on Heritage Day, September 24, and is open to teams from outside Makhanda and non-affiliate teams.
- The committee will need to address the refereeing problem and ensure that proper measures are in place to prevent any issues that could affect the integrity of the tournament.
