Residents will have a say in what the new world-class R39 million sport centre in Joza will be named.
Residents will have a say in what the new world-class R39 million sport centre in Joza will be named.
Makana Municipal Spokesperson Mncedisi Boma told Grocott's Mail that the multi-purpose centre will be named after public participation sessions have taken place in the near future.
At these sessions citizens will get the chance to propose the names of people they would like to see the centre named after. These can be people who have made considerable contributions to uplifting their communities in all spheres of civic life, Boma said.
The nameless centre opened with much fanfare on Friday 27 September.
Eastern Cape Premier Noxolo Kiviet cut the ceremonial ribbon across the entrance in front of about 1 200 people who had gathered in Extension 6 to witness the pomp. Along with the Executive Mayor of Cacadu District Municipality, Eunice Kekana, and Makana Mayor Zamuxolo Peter, Kiviet also unveiled a plaque to mark the official opening.
Kiviet had a stern message for everyone living in the vicinity of the centre about how it is to be looked after.
"We build these beautiful, amazing structures in our townships for you, but yet some of you go and destroy them," she said. The Premier urged residents to look after the majestic complex, and to make sure it's always being put to good use.
She also asked municipal workers to keep on top of maintaining this huge investment for everybody and generations to come. "It is important that we own it, shield it from vandalism and for the workers to keep it tidy and clean," Kiviet said, "so it remains in this excellent state it is in."
The Mayor thanked everyone who worked tirelessly to see the centre become a reality.
It boasts impressive facilities like glassed-in media boxes above the grandstand overlooking the indoor basket ball court. Radio Grahamstown took full advantage of this feature and set up in the box to broadcast live on the day's proceedings.
Current affairs anchor Makhaya Mzongwana kept busy interviewing official guests from he office of the Premier and Makana Municipality.
While the festivities went on, four netball teams from local schools played friendly games on the courts outside.
Some of the sport complex's facilities include a boxing room, training block, handball and volley ball sections. It also houses a hall, stage, backstage area and administration block.
Plans are in place for the centre to host a district sports academy.
