Ekurhuleni Claims Victory at O.R. Tambo Soncini Social Cohesion Games
The City of Ekurhuleni has emerged as the overall champion at the 2025 O.R. Tambo Soncini Social Cohesion Games, hosted by the Gauteng Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture.
The multi-sport competition brought together over 500 young athletes from across Gauteng’s five municipalities: Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane, West Rand District Municipality, and Sedibeng District Municipality. Participants competed in five sporting codes—basketball, netball, volleyball, rugby, and chess.
Ekurhuleni’s athletes demonstrated exceptional talent across all disciplines at the Ellis Park stadium in Johannesburg, securing multiple podium finishes. The city’s chess teams led the charge with gold medals for the boys’ team and silver for the girls.
In rugby, the boys’ team claimed gold while the girls finished fifth. The volleyball boys earned bronze, with the girls placing fifth.
Both basketball teams delivered strong performances, each earning silver medals, while both netball teams also secured silver positions.
The annual games commemorate the life and legacy of anti-apartheid icon Oliver Reginald (O.R.) Tambo and honor his friendship with the late Giuseppe Soncini of Reggio Emilia, Italy, who provided support to South Africa’s liberation struggle during Tambo’s years in exile.
Beyond competitive sport, the event serves as a platform for fostering unity and social cohesion among young people across Gauteng’s diverse communities through teamwork and spirited competition.
Organizers, coaches, and participants have been praised for their dedication and hard work in making the 2025 games a success.