uMfolozi Local Municipality, led by the Honourable Mayor, Councillor Xolani Bhengu, officially launched the 2nd Annual Dr B.V. Mthethwa Mayoral Tournament on Friday, 24 July 2026. The tournament, which will take place from 14 to 16 August 2026, aims to promote sport, identify young talent, and create opportunities for local entrepreneurs and artists.
The Chairperson of the Sports Committee in uMfolozi, Councillor Nhlakanipho Conco, stated that the tournament will serve as a platform for identifying sporting talent among the youth of uMfolozi, emphasizing that only local players will be eligible to participate.
Stakeholders who attended the launch included Standard Bank, the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Inhlansiyethemba Community Development, and Sekhukhune United FC. They commended the municipality for its commitment to youth development through sport. Sekhukhune United FC Technical Director, Themba Sithole, expressed the club’s willingness to partner with uMfolozi Municipality in developing football talent among young people by providing skilled players with opportunities to showcase their abilities and pursue their sporting dreams.
Mayor Bhengu thanked Standard Bank for its commitment to sponsoring the tournament and expressed appreciation to all stakeholders contributing to its success. The significant role played by Dr B.V. Mthethwa in community development and education was also acknowledged and praised.
In addition to sporting opportunities, the tournament will create a platform for emerging local artists. One artist from each ward will be given an opportunity to showcase their talent, providing exposure and potential opportunities for advancement in the entertainment industry. Mayor Bhengu further emphasized the importance of ensuring that all participants in the tournament are residents of uMfolozi, thereby ensuring that local talent and communities derive maximum benefit from the initiative.