SPONSORSHIP FOR KZN CANOE UNION

The MEC for Sport and Recreation, Mr Amichand Rajbansi is handing over the R100 000 cheque to the President of the KZN Canoe Union, Mr Kevin Todd. Looking on is Mr Justice Dlodlo – the Director for Community Sport, Mrs Sumayya Khan – Head of the Department. On the right is Maxwell Mngadi who is one of 240 paddlers benefiting from the programme.  

The Department sponsored 20 canoes as part of its development initiative in 2006.

For 2007 KZN Canoe Union has received a whopping R100 000 from KZNDSR towards its development programme.

The financial assistance by the Department goes beyond just the Dusi; it also covers coaching and associated costs including transport and accommodation for development paddlers.  It will also cover costs for their participation in other major provincial and SA championship events.

A total of 240 paddlers will be participating in these exciting events.

The development projects covered by this funding will be effected in Umnini/Umgababa, Shongweni Dam, Inanda Dam, Nagle Dam. Mboyi School/Table Mountain (kwaXimba) and Henley Dam. In all these areas poverty is a major obstacle to participation in the exclusive sport of canoeing. 

The KZNCU has already secured funds for equipment from another sponsor, but it had    indicated that without extra funding it could not put the equipment to use.

The programme is expected to begin immediately now that the Department of Sport and Recreation has provided the needed funds.

The involvement of the Department of Sport and Recreation in this sport and the Dusi race in particular is in line with the objectives of the Department of promoting major sporting events in the province.

The MEC for Sport and Recreation, Mr Amichand Rajbansi extends his best wishes to all paddlers in this year’s Dusi Canoe Marathon