​On Saturday, 17 May 2025, the Swaneville Sports Complex in Kagiso, Western Corridor was a buzz with excitement as the Department of Social Development hosted an exciting inter-departmental sports tournament. The event brought together employees from various Departments for a day filled with competitive sportsmanship, camaraderie, and vibrant energy.

The tournament featured a variety of sports, including soccer, netball, and volleyball, showcasing the talent and teamwork of the participants. The primary purpose of the event was to prepare for the upcoming invitation from Mopane TVET College in Phalaborwa on May 17, 2025. With approximately 185 participants in attendance, the day was also aimed at fostering social cohesion among public service employees and select participants for the upcoming tournament.

 
Teams from different Departments, including the Gauteng Department of Education (JHB North District, Ekurhuleni South District, JHB West District), joined the tournament, adding to the competitive spirit. The presence of two ex-professional teams, Diski Socials and Malungelo FC, added a special touch to the event.

 
Notably, former Banyana Banyana player and all-time leading goal scorer Portia Modise, along with former Orlando Pirates and Sundowns midfielder Oupa Manyisa, graced the tournament with their presence.

 
Their engagement with the participants and display of skills provided a significant morale boost.

 
Volleyball: The JHB West District men's team triumphed over GDSD with a score of 25-19, while the G

The day concluded with thrilling victories across the three sporting codes: DSD women's team emerged victorious against the JHB West District.

Netball: The Gauteng Department of Education JHB North District secured second place, with GDSD winning 17-14.

Soccer: In a tough final, GDSD narrowly defeated the Gauteng Department of Education JHB North District with a score of1-0.

Tshepo Makgetha, Sports Chairperson in the Department expressed his gratitude, saying, "It was wonderful to see GDSD participants giving their best performance in all sporting codes. I would like to thank the VEP Unit, Men's Forum, and Substance Abuse for supporting us with branding. Additionally, I extend my thanks to Switch Energy Drink, Hollywood Bets and Assupol for donating water and energy drinks for all participants. We had a very successful event."

Makgetha also called for further collaboration within the Department, stating, "We request the MEC's office, stakeholder relations, Older Persons unit, and other programs to collaborate with the Sports Committee to grow sports ,arts, culture, and recreational activities in our Department."

The tournament highlighted the unifying power of sports, promoting a healthy lifestyle and mental well-being among public service employees. It was a day of joy, competition, and community spirit, leaving everyone eagerly anticipating the next event.