Makhaya Ntini Academy inspires optimism for the future

Children continue to bear the brunt of inter-generational poverty in provinces such as the Eastern Cape which is recorded as having the second highest poverty levels in South Africa. Little hope exists for their futures as poverty is both a cause and consequence of social ills such as teenage pregnancies, substance abuse and crime.

However, the Makhaya Ntini Cricket Academy is making great strides at restoring hope with an institution that will provide aspirant cricketers, of school going age (primary and high school), with the necessary skills development opportunities.

Speaking at yesterday'ssod-turning event for the planned academy, Kuseni Dlamini (CEO of Old Mutual South Africa and Emerging Markets) said: “Old Mutual’s involvement in this initiative enables us to work toward our goal of driving economic transformation through capacity building and skills development. The beneficiaries at this academy will in turn share their expertise, as Makhaya does, to build a prosperous South Africa.”

Launched in April 2008, the academy will boast a computer centre, conferencing facilities, accommodation for visiting coaches and some of the best cricket coaching facilities in the country.

In addition, it will host cricket legends from countries such as India, England and the West Indies to conduct coaching clinics. To ensure holistic individual development, budding cricketers will also be taught life skills, computer literacy and financial education as part of their training programme.

The Academy, Makhaya Ntini’s dream of giving back to his community, is certainly coming to fruition. “I am humbled by the level of commitment displayed by institutions such as Old Mutual, Mutual and Federal as well as Basil Read for their generous contribution that’s enabled me to put together building blocks of the academy,” said Ntini.

Rojie Kirsten, managing trustee of the Academy stated that “developing communities is a collective effort from all spheres of society. Sport, as demonstrated by the recent World Cup, unites societies and as a responsible corporate citizen it is in our interest to support initiatives that uplift communities.”

The state-of-the-art facility, estimated at R15 million, will be based at Willows Cricket Club in Mdantsane. Corporate organisations are invited to make a pledge while individuals can make a contribution of as little as R10. Contributions can be made to the following bank account:
Makhaya Ntini Cricket Academy
Bank Name: Nedbank
Account Number: 1152017527
Branch Code: 115209

“My vision is that the people of South Africa own this academy and ensure its success and sustainability. Each of us has a part to play in creating growth opportunities for the youth,” concluded Ntini.

For more information about the Makhaya Ntini Cricket Academy, please contact Rojie Kisten o­n 021 504 4288 or email rkisten@omigsa.com