Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Wolfgang Wallhorn
The DA notes the commitment made by Minister Gayton McKenzie and Deputy Minister for Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, to MEC Virginia Tlhapi of R13 million over the MTEF period for the refurbishment of the long-neglected Mmabatho Stadium.
This intervention comes after sustained DA pressure, including our statement in the North West Provincial Legislature (NWPL) on 26 August 2025 demanding urgent action, accountability, and investment following Orbit Soccer Club’s promotion to the Premier Soccer League (PSL). Orbit has been forced to play outside the province, with Gauteng reaping the economic and social benefits that should rightly belong to North West.
During their oversight visit, the Minister and Deputy Minister confirmed:
- Engineers will return within two weeks to conduct a formal assessment and commission a technical report.
- Repairs will go beyond ablution facilities, seating, and VIP areas to also include the athletics field.
- The private sector will be brought on board to assist in the refurbishment.
- Communities were urged to protect government facilities and stop destroying infrastructure.
The DA stresses that while this funding is national, we will ensure that it does not become another unfunded promise or photo opportunity. To this end, the DA will task our representatives in the National Assembly’s Sports Committee to obtain all relevant information directly from the Department of Sports, Arts, and Culture. These actions will allow us to ensure that the commitment is captured in black and white, with proper plans, budgets, and timelines in place.
The DA has raised concerns about Mmabatho Stadium since November 2022, pointing out broken ablutions, collapsed seating, inoperative floodlights, leaking roofs, and dysfunctional air-conditioning. For too long, promises have been made without delivery.
Mmabatho Stadium must become more than a political talking point; it must be transformed into a symbol of renewal, pride, and opportunity for our province.
The DA will continue to monitor this project closely to ensure that the long-overdue refurbishment delivers real benefits for athletes, supporters, and communities.