The City of Johannesburg’s Community Development Department, through its Sport and Recreation Directorate, proudly supported one of its flagship initiatives — the annual African Pride Games (APG) — which ran from 4 October to 2 November 2025. Hosted by the Phuti Lekoloane Foundation, the Games concluded at Rabie Ridge Stadium in Midrand, showcasing outstanding performances from teams competing for top honours.
Launched in 2020, the African Pride Games have become Africa’s leading LGBTI+ inclusive multi-sport tournament, providing a safe and visible platform for athletes of all identities to demonstrate their talents and passion for sport.
Under the 2025 theme “Beyond Proud”, the Games celebrated diversity, empowerment, and resilience — highlighting how sport can drive equality, inclusion, and unity. The month-long tournament featured a wide range of sporting codes, including football (Under-23, Ladies, and Men’s divisions), netball (Ladies and Men’s), basketball, aquatics, and a community fun run.
“Over five weeks, hundreds of athletes and supporters gathered at Rabie Ridge Stadium to celebrate sport as a tool for social change. Each weekend was filled with competition, cultural exchange, and community engagement, reinforcing the foundation’s mission of promoting equality in sport,” said Cllr Tebogo Nkokou, the City’s MMC for Community Development.
Cllr Nkokou expressed appreciation to all partners and supporters who continue to stand for inclusion and equality in sport.
Now recognised across the continent and abroad — including receiving the 2025 Football v Homophobia International Award — the African Pride Games continue to inspire athletes and communities to live “Beyond Proud.”
The Phuti Lekoloane Foundation is already gearing up for an even bigger and better 2026 edition.
2025 African Pride Games Winners
Senior Men’s Division
Winners: Rinkase Best 11 FC – R110 000 cash prize and trophy
Second place: Gwara Gwara FC – R35 000
Under-23 Division
Winners: Mudagasi FC – R35 000
Second place: Manthwaleng Shakers FC – R10 000
Ladies’ Soccer
Winners: Asijiki FC – Champions
Second place: FC Electrical
Written by Maseipati Tsotsotso