Traffic officers are known for stopping cars and writing tickets to traffic offenders.

In Thohoyandou is a traffic official who is always thinking of ways to improve and develop his community. Early this year he visited Shayandima and found women busy playing soccer at the local sports grounds.

Thulamela traffic chief Thinandavha Munwana was so touched to see that the women had what it takes to make a big club but they lacked the resources. He was hooked by their excellent play and dedication that he promised there and then to buy them a full soccer kit if they kept up the standard for the whole year. This is they did indeed as they are still perched at the top of the log.

Munwana kept to his promise and he handed over the kit to the happy team this week. In doing so he put smiles on the faces of the women who are celebrating their good fortune. This has been a real gift during the 16 days of non-violence and abuse against women and children.

The club was formed last year and campaigns in the ABSA League. The team, owned by Emmanuel Mudau, a young and energetic Thulamela traffic official, has been doing very well despite the fact that they lacked the necessary equipment.

Munwana said he was taken aback to see that, although they had no boots, the ladies were beating well-resourced teams. “I knew that they only needed to be encouraged and that was why I dangled the carrot in front of them. I knew that I did not have enough money at the time, so I had to save for them. I bought the uniform, which I kept under wraps while waiting for these special days for women. We just wanted to encourage them and show them that we appreciate the good work they are doing. Instead of abusing them, we are preaching a message of love to the world through this donation, “he said

The managing director of the club, Mr Emmanuel Mudau, said Munwana was like a gift from heaven.

“I have been running the club from my pocket without any form of sponsorship, and it has been straining me as I also have a family to support, “he said

“I am very humbled. I do not have enough words to thank him and just hope God will bless him and his family,” he said.