On 28 November, Kaizer Chiefs joined forces with Rhiza Babuyile and Johan Cruyff Foundations in Orange Farm to launch a community upliftment project, unveiling a new soccer pitch and water distribution centre.
Amakhosi defender, Ignacio Miguel, who opened the field with a ceremonial penalty kick, was pleased to have attended the event along with team mates George Matlou, Mduduzi Mdantsane, Edmilson Dove and Bongani Sam.
“It’s good to participate in these kinds of projects. We are pleased to be part of assisting people holistically in a sporting way and ensuring they can have access to clean water,” he said.
The daughter of the late Dutch football wizard Johan Cruyff, Susila, was complimentary of Chiefs attending the opening of the new pitch, she said: “Thanks to Kaizer Chiefs for coming here and I hope you remain involved in this project. My father always said that through sport we could influence change and I believe with this project we can do that.”
Another of the attendees was former Chiefs defender, Morgan Gould, who believes these types of initiatives are a positive step.
“We need to help build dreams and with this new field and the water project, we are able to see the fulfilment of young kids dreams of being able to express themselves and have a place to play,” he said.
“It also helps other community members to continue farming, so it’s always a blessing to contribute to communities in a positive way,” Goud added.
Robbert Popken – the head of the Dutch Rhiza Foundation that works in conjunction with the South African arm – also praised Kaizer Chiefs for their attendance, he said: “We saw here today, with the local community, just how popular Kaizer Chiefs are. We believe that we can work on more projects with them to make a positive impact.”
