The Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture (DSRAC) convened a strategic engagement session with Boxing South Africa (BSA) as well as the Eastern Cape Boxing Promoters Association (ECBPA) in East London on Saturday in an effort to push the province to reclaim its former glory.
The engagement, which was spearheaded by Awethu Zumana, the general manager for sport and recreation at DSRAC, the meeting reflected on achievements of the previous financial year while also charting a path forward for the Eastern Cape boxing development programme as well as the Women in Boxing Series.
The latter includes six development tournaments across all districts and a flagship event led exclusively by female promoters featuring female boxers and ring officials.
The programme has, over the years, become a cornerstone for nurturing boxing talent, both male and female at the grassroots level. Acknowledging its success, Zumana stressed the need to amplify support through partnerships with the corporate sector.
“Promoters are business people expected to grow the industry and seek further investment. What we are providing is seed funding, not profit,” Zumana said referring to the R1,2 million DSRAC committed to development tournaments as well as an additional R300,000 for the Women in Boxing Series.
A notable highlight was the call for gender inclusivity as BSA’s performance review underscored the under representation of female boxers. Going forward, promoters will be required to feature at least 40 percent female bouts in all development tournaments.
ECBPA secretary Sibongile Matiti-Mpofu said: “As women, we feel the pinch in this sport. We deserve recognition, not as a favour, but as a right. Girls must be encouraged to love boxing through active participation.”
Discussions also highlighted the urgent need for capacity building and infrastructure upgrades. Poor facility conditions have resulted in an exodus of boxers to other provinces, particularly Gauteng.
Stakeholders proposed a broader engagement involving government, district municipalities and private sector investors to explore boxing’s potential as a vehicle for sport tourism and economic development in the region.
BSA director of operations Mandla Ntlanganiso emphasised the importance of co-ordination and consistency.
“With 28 licensed promoters – 11 development, nine national and eight international – the Eastern Cape has the muscle to deliver. What broadcasters and sponsors want is a well packaged, consistent and dependable programme,” Ntlanganiso said.
Ntlanganiso also confirmed that a request for proposals for tournament hosting will be issued by the end of June and he strongly encouraged all development and female promoters to apply.
With renewed focus, financial backing and a clear roadmap, all stakeholders left the session optimistic. If these discussions translate into action, the Eastern Cape may well reclaim its crown as South Africa’s boxing powerhouse, starting with ensuring its champions can defend titles at home.
