The first democratically elected President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela at the inaugural Laureus World Sports Awards in 2000 said: “Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite people in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand.”

It is important for the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to be at the forefront of advocating for human rights in sports because sport is not only a powerful tool for unity and nation building, but also a platform that reflects the broader values of our constitutional democracy.

The Commission commends the collaboration with SAFA as it reflects the transformative role of sport in advancing the values of human dignity, equality, and freedom, the pillars of our constitutional democracy.

Sport mirrors society — and where there is discrimination, exclusion, or injustice within sporting codes, it is the duty of the Commission to speak out, to protect the rights of the vulnerable, and to promote inclusive participation for all, regardless of gender, race, or background.

Furthermore, through initiatives like signing of the human rights pledge, the SAHRC amplifies the voices of the voiceless — including the youth, women, and persons with disabilities — and reaffirms the importance of sport as a platform to continuously inspire hope, social cohesion, and transformation.

In a country with a painful history of division, it is through platforms like sport that we remind ourselves and the world of our shared humanity and the dignity inherent in every individual. The SAHRC’s presence and advocacy in this space is thus both symbolic and practical — safeguarding rights, promoting accountability, and ensuring that sport remains a force for good in advancing the human rights of all who call South Africa home.

As the nation comes together to celebrate Human Rights Day, the Commission extends its best wishes to our national team, Bafana Bafana, in their pursuit to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

We call on all South Africans to unite in support of Bafana Bafana as they face Likuena in this important encounter- a moment that underscores the unifying power of sport and the enduring spirit of our democracy.

ENDS

For further information, Mr Wisani Baloyi on 081 016 8308 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or Given Makhuvele @ 082 773 4428/ 072 1977 581 (WhatsApp) email on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.