Mama Joy and Machaka
JOHANNESBURG - South Africa is by its nature a sport-loving nation.
Many people have gone the extra mile to call themselves superfans.
The taxpayer has spent millions over the years for them to attend international sporting events but the new Sports Minister is putting a stop to this spending.
Minister Gayton McKenzie boldly posted on X that he has stopped all funding of superfans.
I have stopped all trips for super fans, we have athletes & artist who are struggling to raise money to attend sporting events and exhibitions, how do we justify paying for fans? We shall no longer be paying for these trips and will use that money where it’s needed the most.
— Gayton McKenzie (@GaytonMcK) July 9, 2024
Instead, he says the money will be used to support athletes and artists who are struggling financially.
This after Mama Joy Chauke and Botha Msila were recipients of funding to attend the Rugby World Cup in Paris last year.
All this to the tune of R1.3-million for travel and accommodation costs alone.
This was revealed by the Sports, Arts and Culture Department upon a request from Afriforum.