Following their historic Women’s Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco, the Banyana Banyana stars from Limpopo were honoured and celebrated by the provincial government on Thursday.
Of the 23 members of the team that won the Wafcon, five players Lebogang Ramalepe, Noko Matlou, Nomvula Kgoale, Hildah Magaia and Amogelang Motau are from the province of Limpopo.
MEC for Sport, Arts and Culture, Thandi Moraka hosted a welcoming and celebrating ceremony through a breakfast session held at Meropa Casino, Polokwane.
The breakfast was preceded by a motorcade parade around the streets of the city of Polokwane. They were also presented with official jackets from the department of Sports.
MEC Moraka has committed to paying each of the five players R 100 000 for their efforts.
“We would give you more but this is what we can give you within the coffers of our department,” Moraka told guests who attended the event.
“We will give you R 100 00 and the R 50 000 is from the MEC’s outreach programme and the other R 50 000 will be coming from the Sport, Arts and Culture award programme, through the category of the MEC.
“We are saying you deserve it. You have worked hard, you have made us proud, continue making us proud and we will always be behind you,” she said.
“Banyana Banyana’s historic 2-1 win over hosts Morocco in the final of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nation (WAFCON) final in Rabat on Saturday, brought nothing but unity and jubilation in the sporting fraternity. These trailblazers are indeed an inspiration to the up and coming football players.”
Midfielder Amogelang Motau and defender Lebogang Ramalepe were unable to attend the event due to other commitments. The families of the footballers were also in attendance.
Some of the dignitaries include the former SAFA vice President Ria Ledwaba, SAFA Limpopo regional leaders and political leaders.