South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Zizi Kodwa, is set to travel to New Zealand to show his support for Banyana Banyana, the country’s national women’s football team, as they compete in the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Minister Kodwa’s decision to join the team in New Zealand comes after witnessing their impressive 2-0 victory against Costa Rica in a World Cup warm-up match, reinforcing the team’s readiness for the upcoming tournament.
Banyana Banyana, who currently hold the title of African champions, will begin their World Cup campaign against Sweden on Sunday, 23 July 2023.
Minister Kodwa expressed his unwavering belief in the team’s capabilities and emphasized the importance of providing them with the space and support needed to focus entirely on the global showcase.
He called upon all South Africans to rally behind the team, praising Banyana Banyana for not only their on-field excellence but also for their exceptional leadership both on and off the pitch, serving as a source of national pride and unity.
With the nation’s support, Minister Kodwa expressed his confidence that Banyana Banyana will continue to make their country proud in the prestigious tournament.
“This team goes into the World Cup as African champions. They are a high quality team who have shown great leadership on and off the field. Banyana Banyana represent the best of South Africa. They inspire national unity, as we have seen the support South Africans have given to the team.
I urge South Africans to rally behind Banyana Banyana. Let us raise our voices and, in our numbers, let us show Banyana Banyana how much they are loved and adored in the country. These are African champions. These are high calibre players who represent the best of South Africa. With the nation’s support, I have no doubt that Banyana Banyana will continue to make us very proud at the World Cup,” Minister Kodwa said.
