What is regarded as a local sport by the local communities, mufuvha, is now recognised globally.

This was proven after two residents of Makhado Municipality jetted off to Russia to participate in the International Indigenous games. The two, Ms Lutendo Khurumedzha and Walter Ramphaga, were bidden farewell by the mayor of the Makhado Municipality, Cllr David Mutavhatsindi.

They will compete with people from other international countries in mufuvha, a local traditional game. The trip came after the two Makhado residents had outclassed other competitors during a recent national tournament, held in Johannesburg.

Ramphaga could not contain his excitement. He said he felt proud to participate in the games at an international level. “This tournament will be promoting indigenous games globally and that’s an honour for me” he said. Kurumedzha, who shared the sentiments, added that she would represent the country well during the games.

Mayor Mutavhatsindi said the municipality was very proud of the two, because indigenous games played an essential role in preserving culture. “This will also put our municipality on the map internationally,” he added. He also mentioned that the municipality had recently set aside R70 000 for the indigenous games in the 2012/13 budget.