KNYSNA NEWS - "The inspiration behind this initiative is a sad reality we are faced with, which is the youth using drugs and abusing alcohol. We believe that with the right support and guidance, children can achieve greater things in life," said Africa Vumazonke, president of the Football Against Drugs initiative.

A number of children from various schools in the Greater Knysna District participated in the Football Against Drugs tournament which was initiated by Vumazonke in conjunction with Justice Xhonti, a Knysna resident.

The tournament was held on Saturday, July 30 at the Hornlee Sport Field, Knysna.

The learners who participated in the tournament were from Fraaisig Primary School, Chris Nissen Primary School, Thembalitsha Primary School and Phakamasani Primary School (Plettenberg Bay).

"Myself and Xhonti came up with this idea of making the youth aware of the dangers related to drug abuse. We then decided to use football, South Africa’s favourite sport, to combat drugs amongst the youth. We adopted the idea and started planning right away," explained Vumazonke.

He further said that the organisers’ aim was to invite u/12s and u/17s to take part in the tournament, but due to insufficient funds they had to limit the participation only to u/12s from primary schools in and around Knysna.

The Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre also played a vital role during the tournament, providing the children with educational brochures and advice pertaining to alcohol and drug abuse.

Pick n Pay, Knysna once again showed that it cares about the well-being of Knysna’s children and showed its support by donating funds towards the success of this inaugural Football Against Drugs initiative.

Fraaisig Primary School rose as the victorious team of the tournament after beating Chris Nissen Primary School in penalty shootouts.

"We plan on making this tournament an annual event and we hope to extend it to other surrounding areas in the Garden Route, as well as to older children," said Vumazonke.

In conclusion, the organising team of this tournament would like to thank all the stakeholders and sponsors of the event and a special thanks to the Pick n Pay, Knysna’s management team and staff, who generously took out of their own pockets to support this worthy cause. A special thanks also to the Knysna Alcohol and Drug Centre for its support.


Children from different schools in the Greater Knysna District participated in the Football Against Drugs tournament which was held on Saturday, July 30 at the Hornlee Sport Field.