The fundraising event was aimed at accumulating funds to provide women in rugby with all the opportunities equal to their male counterparts such as remuneration, administration, transportation, and promotions.

In addition the event was aimed at encouraging more stakeholders to contribute to eliminating gender inequality in sport and difficult administrative challenges as a whole.

Bongiwe Nhleko, the executive member of the Lions spoke about the challenges faced by women in sport in South Africa.

She said: “I know we are here for rugby, but it goes without saying that Banyana Banyana’s victory at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations was historical and serves as an inspiration. The same applies to the Protea Women’s team.”

“However, it is disheartening to see these teams achieving their successes at a fraction of the funding and recognition that goes to their male counterparts. Therefore, this should serve as a sharp reminder that female sport still has its challenges,” added Nhleko.

The Lion’s women’s team has produced tremendous achievements. It has hardworking and resilient members with 14 girl only teams playing competitively. They are currently sponsored by Mastercard.

MMC Harris was honoured to be among the people who wants to see that change happen for female sport in South Africa. He was also impressed with the male attendance at the event as a sign of support to the initiative.

“Women play an important role in society and having them infiltrate the different sporting codes such as rugby shows that they can do anything they want, despite all the different hats they wear in their respective lives. The City of Johannesburg supports female rugby and hopes that gender inequality will be a thing of the past. Women athletes deserve equal opportunities and more,” said MMC Harris.

Issued by:

Councillor Ronald Harris,

MMC for Community Development in the City of Joburg

City of Joburg