Statement by Yongama Zigebe, UDM Secretary General

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has taken note of the excitement surrounding President Cyril Ramaphosa’s announcement that South Africa will celebrate the remarkable victory of the Springboks at the 2023 Rugby World Cup with an additional public holiday on 15 December 2023. Meanwhile, other sporting codes do not receive the same financial benefits and public recognition as Amabhokobhoko – Intliziyo icishe yama (my heart almost stopped).

The UDM echoes the words of our Deputy President and Member of Parliament, Nqabayomzi Kwankwa, when he recently noted with concern that the Springboks were the only national team celebrated when they achieved world honours. He said that it is incorrect for Parliament to solely acknowledge the Springboks as the nation’s national team.

In 2019, Parliament also received the Springboks when they claimed their third World Cup victory.

This holiday also places more emphasis on the fact that the Springboks’ triumphant victory did not only bring a sense of elation to rugby fans but also spotlighted the pressing issue of inequality in sports, particularly concerning sponsorship, underinvestment in other sporting codes, and the glaring disparity in salaries between male and female athletes.

This holiday should serve as a poignant reminder of the stark contrast between the support and sponsorship available to rugby, particularly men’s rugby, and the relative neglect of other sporting codes, particularly women’s sports like cricket, hockey, football and netball. While the Springboks have major corporate sponsors, multi-million-dollar endorsements, and an extensive media presence, other women’s sporting codes often struggle to secure the financial backing necessary for elite competition.

This financial disparity is not just about the numbers on a balance sheet; it reflects society’s values and the deep-rooted gender biases prevalent in sports. It perpetuates the notion that women’s sports are less important or less entertaining, despite the fact that female athletes have consistently displayed remarkable skills and dedication, often achieving results that rival those of their male counterparts. It’s high time we recognise the inherent value of women’s sports and invest in it accordingly.

Moreover, gender inequality is glaringly evident when we examine the vast salary disparities between male and female athletes. In many sports, male athletes earn disproportionately higher salaries than females, despite achieving similar levels of success and putting in the same level of dedication and effort. This pay gap is not justified by performance but rather perpetuates systemic biases and societal norms that place men’s sports on a pedestal.

Addressing these issues and achieving true equity in sports necessitates a multipronged approach. Sponsors and media outlets should recognise the value of women’s sports and allocate resources accordingly. It’s not merely about financial investments; it’s about challenging the prevailing attitudes that underestimate the importance and appeal of women’s sports. Female athletes should be compensated fairly, commensurate with their skills, commitment, and the revenue they generate. This requires a shift in perception and a willingness to promote women’s sports with the same vigour and investment that men’s sports have enjoyed for decades.

The UDM is calling on Zizi Kodwa, the Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, to take note of these shortcomings and improve his ability to recognise other sports with the same fervour as the Springboks. It is your responsibility to ensure that our athletes have the same advantages and treatment as other athletes, particularly in relation to the government and other relevant stakeholders.

Issued by:
UDM National Office
Mr Yongama Zigebe
UDM General Secretary