Limpopo promoter Dongola organises anti-GBV boxing event

Female MECs to feature in exhibition matches

Promoter Phathutshedzo Dongola has announced that his Limpopo Champs Promotions, in partnership with the provincial government, will stage an international tournament dubbed “Fight Against GBV” at Ngoako Ramatlhodi Sports Complex in Seshego, Polokwane, on December 2.

“SA, under the new government, abolished apartheid laws that prevented women from participating in many sports, and boxing is one of them,” he explained yesterday.

“That was crime against women who are today making strides in all codes,” Dongola said.

The former pro boxer added: “Our own Noni Tenge became the first woman in Africa to become a world boxing champ when she won the IBF belt.

“Recently, Phiwokuhle Mnguni became the first female in SA to win a bronze medal in the Commonwealth Games.

“These successes talk to SA recognising women as human beings and also providing equal platforms to their male counterparts to express themselves in any way possible.

“Instead of celebrating their achievements, we read in newspapers about them being raped, murdered and abused.”

Dongola said he did not think twice when approached about lending a hand in spreading the message against gender-based violence.

“We will be visiting churches and some schools to speak about what has become a national pandemic.”

He announced three exhibition fights involving politicians, two of which between women: MEC for health Phophi Ramathuba will take on MEC for sports Nakedi Sibanda-Kekana, while MEC for public works Nkakareng Ragwale will take on safety MEC Florence Radzilani.

The province’s only national boxing champ, Jeff Magagane, will put his junior-featherweight title on line against Zolis Batyi. In the supporting bout, Tshifhiwa Munyai will welcome Crispin Moliati from Malawi over 10 rounds.

In the women’s bout, Lufuno Mutshayi and Monalisa Dube meet over 6 rounds.