Gayton McKenzie ends travel opportunities for enthusiastic supporters

Sport, Arts, and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has halted trips for avid fans to prioritise channeling funds towards athletes and artists who require support.

McKenzie has made bold promises to transform the department since he was sworn in at the Cape Town International Convention Centre last Wednesday.

GAYTON MCKENZIE STOPS TRIPS FOR SUPER FANS

On Monday, artists and creatives welcomed McKenzie’s decision to make public a list of all the individuals receiving funds from the department, including reasons.

“I have given an instruction that a list be published of all artists, creatives and sports people who have been receiving money from the Department of Sport, Arts & Culture be published inclusive of amounts & reasons. The time where only a select connected few benefit is over,” he wrote on X.

Additionally, McKenzie also announced that he stopped trips for super fans and will redirect the funds to artists and athletes.

“I have stopped all trips for super fans, we have athletes & artist who are struggling to raise money to attend sporting events and exhibitions, how do we justify paying for fans? We shall no longer be paying for these trips and will use that money where it’s needed the most,” said.

MINISTER’S DECISION LABELLED EMOTIONAL AND SHORT-SIGHTED

While many have welcomed McKenzie’s decision to stop trips for super fans, some have criticised it arguing that super fans often attract media attention, putting South African sports in the international spotlight, which can lead to increased tourism and sponsorship opportunities.

Botha Msila told TimesLIVE that he finances his trips and has some soccer players including Andile Jali have assisted him.

On the other hand, Joy “Mama Joy” Chauke has always made it known that the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture funds her trips.

“I honestly don’t support Minister Gayton McKenzie’s decision to cancel trips for our super fans. Mama Joy and others like her serve as brand ambassadors for South Africa. Their presence at international events is invaluable, not just for the players, but for us back home as well. They bring our spirit, our culture, and our passion for sport to the global stage,” Edgar Legoale wrote on X reacting to Gayton McKenzie’s announcement.