Durban - Rural communities in KwaZulu-Natal will soon have access to sport and recreation facilities thanks to two multi-million rand developmental projects.
The first project to be unveiled is the development of a R2 million sport complex at Tobi in Umbumbulu, south of Durban.
The second project will be a sports field at Magede Mzobe, in Mvutshin near Margate, at a cost of R1.5 million.
"Both these sports facilities will be constructed in rural areas that lack infrastructure for sports and recreation and this will go a long way in addressing social problems that result from under development," said Vukani Mbhele, spokesperson for the provincial Department of Arts, Culture, Sport and Recreation.
The implementation of these projects will contribute towards job creation with more than 50 employment opportunities for the local people in both areas combined.
The Umbumbulu project has been earmarked by South African Breweries (SAB) as one of the five projects they have agreed to deliver in conjunction with the department.
Mbele said SAB has set aside additional funding of R500 000 to augment the infrastructure programme and provide a legacy field covered with artificial turf.
The construction of the sports fields, especially in rural areas, is also a response to President Jacob Zuma's call for government to pay particular attention to rural development.
