Committee on Sport commends Protea Women’s valiant World Cup performance


By BAKANG MOKOTO

3 November 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture has commended the Protea Women’s cricket team for their spirited performance in the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup Final 2025, held in Navi Mumbai. The committee said it acknowledges the team’s determination and growth, despite falling short in the final against hosts India.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Joe McGluwa said: “It was another case of a missed opportunity, but the effort was truly commendable. The team’s back-to-back appearances in major finals in last year’s T20 World Cup and now the 50-over format—underscores the urgent need for South Africans to lobby behind our national teams and for the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture including the private sector to increase investment in women’s sport.

“These achievements are not coincidental. It has become South Africa’s brand. It reflects the potential of our women athletes in general and South Africa’s talent in particular. Given the necessary support things look victorious for us.”

Reflecting on the tournament, McGluwa further said they noted that aside from the opening match setback, where South Africa was bowled out for 69, the team delivered consistent and competitive performances. He added that they convincingly thumped England by 125 runs in the semi-final and held their own in the final.

“It’s hard to fault them. We congratulate our girls for their resilience and the pride they’ve brought to the nation. We praise the team’s growth. The Protea Women, just like rugby, have grown in leaps and bounds.

“Their recent performances are a testament to their hard work, talent, and the promise of a brighter future for women’s cricket in South Africa,” said McGluwa.

Meanwhile, India won the final by 52 runs, but the Proteas remained in contention until the closing stages, showcasing their fighting spirit on the world stage.

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Committee lauds Women Boks


By AGISANANG SCUFF

16 September 2025- The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture congratulates the Women Boks on their achievements and progress at the ongoing World Cup in England, despite their loss to the New Zealand Black Ferns. The committee praised the remarkable progress made by the Women Boks, evident in their quarterfinal appearance at the World Cup.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Joe McGluwa said: “Their performance against mostly professional and semi-professional teams is commendable. SA Rugby must develop strategies for professionalism and conditioning of elite players.

“We need significant improvement in teams participating in the women’s Currie Cup, where only the Blue Bulls have a professional setup. The committee acknowledged the involvement of sponsors supporting representative teams, but financial rewards for women players should follow.”

McGluwa further said while they do not demand equal pay to the Springboks, it is essential that women be able to play rugby comfortably without financial burdens. He added that they call on South Africans to support women’s rugby, making it a sport of choice for women.

“Talent identification must start in schools, going beyond mere compliance and tick-box exercises,” said McGluwa.

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‘Nyembe’s passing a loss to the industry’


By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

25 August 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture said it has learnt with shock the passing of legendary actress, Nandi Nyembe on Sunday. The committee sent its deep heartfelt condolences to the family, industry and the general public.

The Chairperson of the Committee, Joe McGluwa said it is sad that South Africa has lost this giant of television, film and theatre. McGluwa said Nyembe is departing with a wealth of experience, which has benefited many and should have benefited many more.

“The family announced the sad news on Sunday. Nyembe passed after a long illness and had been wheelchair bound for a while. Her passing is a loss to the industry and to the country. This is a person we have come to accept as a mother, aunt, sister and many other things from our television screens.

“Nyembe passed old age but it feels she was way younger and hence this news shocked us. She played in such illustrious productions as Yizo Yizo, Zone 12, and Soul City. She was 75 at the time of her passing,” he said.

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