The DA in Limpopo has raised concerns about the deteriorating standard of athletics facilities at the Old Peter Mokaba Stadium, following issues experienced during the recent Polokwane P1 Athletics Championships.
One of the main concerns is the reported melting of the Tartan track, an all-weather synthetic rubberised surface commonly used for athletics tracks.
These issues are particularly serious in light of the failures exposed at the 2025 National School Sport Championships in Bloemfontein, where poor preparation and inadequate planning severely disadvantaged our young athletes.
Limpopo cannot afford a repeat of that embarrassment. Athletes, coaches and schools have a right to expect facilities that are safe, functional and fit for competitive athletics, particularly at a stadium that is meant to showcase the province’s sporting capability.
In this regard, the DA welcomes the immediate and proactive response of the Limpopo Provincial Head of Department, Ms Veronica Mokgonyana, who has indicated her willingness to urgently engage with relevant stakeholders to address the challenges identified.
The DA will participate constructively in this process, while maintaining firm oversight to ensure that the Peter Mokaba Stadium, and other similar infrastructure in the province meets the standards required to host school athletics events with dignity and professionalism.
Our young athletes deserve facilities that support sporting excellence, not undermine it.