South Africa’s Sports, Arts and Culture minister Zizi Kodwa has asked for a meeting with the South Africa Football Players Union on Tuesday 4 July 2023 in a bid to obtain a status update on the state of readiness of Banyana Banyana’s participation at the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup.The latest development comes in the wake of the women’s national team decision to boycott their international friendly on Sunday against Botswana, demanding that a better and more suitable venue, preferably a 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium.📝 ℕ𝔼𝔾𝕆𝕋𝕀𝔸𝕋𝕀𝕆ℕ𝕊 𝕋𝔹ℂ 📝Following mediation by Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi with Banyana Banyana’s captains, SAFA leadership, and SAFPU leadership, the parties will go back to the 💰 negotiation table and the #FIFAWWC squad remains unchanged. #SABCSportFootball pic.twitter.com/uUHbtiEws7— SABC Sport (@SABC_Sport) July 2, 2023 Banyana were set to play the Southern African nation at the Tsakane Stadium, with said to be concerned about the risk of injuries if they are forced there.It is reported that after SAFA’s best efforts to intervene, the group of starting players maintained their stance, forcing head coach Desiree Ellis to name a team of 20 players, who are not currently in camp, to save them from the embarrassment of a no-show.The match ended 5-0 in favor of Botswana – following a standoff that had a group of the Banyana Banyana players denied entry to the stadium.##NAJAVA_MECA_7347593##“The players said they want to discuss [issues] with [SAFA]. Firstly, there are conditions of employment and issues such as health and safety at Tsakane Stadium, where the pitch is not okay. We’ve raised this issue with them, and they said they will revert,” SAFPU president Thulaganyo Gaoshubelwe, who engaged the players, said.Banyana Banyana, who already have their final 23-woman squad with three additional players on standby for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, will have their issues heard on Tuesday, with SAPFU presenting their plight.“The meeting will consider issues pertaining to the government’s commitment and support to the team, the team’s working, welfare and health conditions, including transparency and accountability related to the signing of contracts,” the ministry’s communique added.Chebet seals second consecutive Diamond League win after reigning supreme in Stockholm“Women’s development, agency, voice and dignity in sport remains at the center of the government’s gender equality agenda. Women players are assured of a safe environment to raise their concerns without fear of victimization.”The team is expected to jet out for the World Cup on Wednesday, 5 July.
