Rhiza Babuyile, a leading South African community development NPO, in collaboration with the Johan Cruyff Foundation, have announced the unveiling of two Cruyff Courts in South Africa last month.
The duo says that these Cruyff Courts are aimed at empowering local communities through sports and are also addressing one of the country’s most pressing issues: water scarcity. Equipped with cutting-edge water harvesting and filtration systems, these fields now double as sources of fresh drinking water for their surrounding neighbourhoods in poverty-stricken areas.
The “Catch-Store-ReUse” system stands out as a game-changing innovation in a nation grappling with inadequate access to safe water. The system collects rainwater, purifies it and stores it in a designated container. A tap affixed to the container’s exterior allows community members to draw clean water with ease, adds the duo.
The first of two Cruyff Courts was inaugurated on Thursday, 28 November at the Rhiza Agricultural Farm in Orange Farm, Gauteng, and the second was unveiled on Saturday, 30 November at Louwville High School in Vredenburg, Western Cape. Both locations were strategically chosen to serve as safe, accessible and inclusive spaces for children and youth in communities facing significant socio-economic challenges, say Rhiza Babuyile and the Johan Cruyff Foundation.
“South Africa’s water crisis has intensified in recent years with water scarcity making it challenging to develop and maintain vital infrastructure, including sports facilities. The Cruyff Courts’ innovative design not only overcomes these barriers but also transforms the fields into sustainable, multi-purpose assets,” says Alef Meulenburg, founder of the Rhiza Foundation.
The duo says that the forward-thinking initiative underscores how sustainable design can address environmental challenges while fostering social development.
“By integrating sports and essential services, these Cruyff Courts provide hope and practical solutions to some of South Africa’s most vulnerable communities,” adds Meulenburg.
Meulenburg and Niels Meijer, Director of the Johan Cruyff Foundation, have a long history together from their time in the basketball world, where they both competed at a high level. When they reconnected, they quickly recognised numerous shared values and opportunities to collaborate.
The duo says that their partnership is driven by a shared commitment to youth empowerment and community development. Dutch footballer, Johan Cruyff, opened the very first international Cruyff Court in 2004, making South Africa one of the focus countries of the Johan Cruyff Foundation.
“This partnership with the Johan Cruyff Foundation is a game changer for our communities. These courts are more than just sports facilities; they represent hope, inclusivity and the opportunity for a brighter future. We’re thrilled to see this vision come to life and to provide the youth of Orange Farm and Vredenburg with the space to grow, thrive, and lead,” says Meulenburg.
The new courts promise a safe space for the physical and mental health development of children and youth, including those with disabilities, while fostering an inclusive environment that promotes gender equity and challenges harmful social norms like gang violence and drug addiction, the duo adds. It provides an opportunity to address critical issues such as poverty, youth unemployment and social inequality.
At least 10 schools from the local vicinity can use the court according to a designated schedule. They can exercise there under the supervision facilitated by accredited training courses, says the duo.
“We are committed to providing the children of South Africa with a space that fosters both physical and mental health,” says Meulenburg. “The Cruyff Courts are designed to be inclusive, where everyone, regardless of gender, ability, or background, can come together and enjoy sports in a safe and supportive environment.”
Joining the launch events the daughter of the late Johan Cruyff, Susila Cruyff, also shared her insights into the legacy of her father’s commitment to making sports accessible for all children.
“The Johan Cruyff Foundation has been instrumental in creating these accessible sports spaces globally, with South Africa now joining a growing number of countries to benefit from this initiative,” says Farid Gamei, Senior Project Manager in The Netherlands.
“The new Cruyff Courts will serve as a catalyst for change, offering a safe space for children and young people to experience the power of sport, build friendships, and develop crucial life skills. Importantly, the courts will also contribute to the fight against gender-based violence, as they provide a platform for social activism and positive community engagement,” Gamei adds.
The flagship launch event in Orange Farm was attended by notable figures, including Kaizer Chiefs legends, Irvin Pepe Dire, Agrippa Malombo Tsoari, Johnny Mokome, Petrus Mosuoe, representatives from the Netherlands Embassy, local celebrities and corporate partners such as Betway and others who have supported the initiative, the duo adds.
Rhiza Babuyile’s work is rooted in community development, focusing on healthcare, skills development, education and economic empowerment. Through the partnership with the Johan Cruyff Foundation, they continue to lead the charge in addressing inequality and creating lasting opportunities for disadvantaged communities, the organisations conclude.
For more information, visit www.r-b.org or www.cruyff-foundation.org.
*Image courtesy of contributor
Rhiza Babuyile Johan Cruyff Foundation Cruyff Courts Rhiza Agricultural Farm Louwville High School Alef Meulenburg
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