The 2024 SALGA Games, commencing today in eThekwini, is South Africa's largest multi-coded junior development sports event, bringing together over 4 000 athletes to compete across 13 sporting codes.
The event, which has been held annually since 1998 (except during the Covid-19 pandemic), is widely recognised for its critical role in nurturing young talent and fostering skills development in sports officiating and administration.
Running until December 8, the SALGA Games will see athletes from 10 district municipalities and eThekwini compete.
Team eThekwini is seeking to defend their title, having been back-to-back champions.
Dr Vusi Mazibuko, chairperson of the SALGA Games, described the event as unparalleled in its scale and impact.
“There are no games of this magnitude, both in size and in terms of the number of athletes and sports, like the SALGA Games.”
“These games provide unique opportunities for athletes, officials and administrators to develop.”
He also highlighted how the games foster growth beyond athletic participation.
“The development aspect is not only on player development. They also provide a platform for officials and administrators. Some officials have developed to officiate at higher levels, including international levels, while administrators get to sharpen their skills in delivering games of this scale,” he added.
Mazibuko underscored the importance of these games for athletes from rural areas.
“KwaZulu-Natal is a predominantly rural province. Participants in their own municipalities may never have had an opportunity to compete with athletes from other districts. The games provide this vital platform,” he said.
He also noted that the inclusion of talent scouts further enhances the games’ impact.
“Selectors and scouts from different federations descend on the games to identify young talent. This creates a pathway for athletes to be developed through federation systems,” he explained.
Mazibuko said the games have also been a catalyst for upgrading facilities in eThekwini, leaving a legacy for local communities.
“In preparation for the games, facilities like Kings Park Athletics Stadium, Umlazi Indoor Sports Hall and Christianbeck Grounds were upgraded. While some work remains to be completed post-games, the hosting of such events always drives facilities development,” Mazibuko said.
During the launch and draw for the 2024 SALGA games, Mayor Cyril Xaba echoed this sentiment, emphasising eThekwini’s readiness to host the games.
“R40 million has been invested to upgrade and maintain our beaches and sporting facilities. This strengthens our position as an events and sporting capital,” he said.
He also acknowledged the impact of the games on the tourism sector and temporary job creation.
“The City is going all out to ensure we host a successful SALGA Games.”
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Sports, Arts and Culture, Mtomuhle Khawula, commended the collaborative efforts behind the event.
“The games showcase unity across the province. Various sectors will benefit and youth development continues to take centre stage,” he said.