Our Viewpoint | Bafana at the World Cup

When Bafana Bafana walk onto the field against Mexico tonight, they will carry the hopes of millions of South Africans and a reminder of the unique power of sport to unite people. The tournament begins at a time when the world appears increasingly fractured. Wars continue to rage in several regions.

Political extremism is on the rise. Societies are becoming more polarised and divided by race, religion, nationality and ideology. Across many countries, tensions over immigration and identity have fuelled anger, fear and, in some cases, violence.

Against that backdrop, the World Cup offers something different. It is one of the few global events where people of different cultures, languages, beliefs and backgrounds gather not to compete for power, but to celebrate talent, achievement and shared humanity. It is a showcase of multiculturalism, diversity and the aspiration for equality and opportunity.

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South Africa understands better than most nations the power of sport to unite people. President Cyril Ramaphosa captured that sentiment when he said: “For 90 minutes, as they play for our country, we will not be divided by language, race, province, club or circumstance. “We will simply be South Africans standing together behind our national team and behind our flag.” The challenges facing South Africa, including poverty, unemployment and concerns around immigration, will not be solved through division, intimidation or violence.

They require dialogue, leadership, respect for the law, and a commitment to finding solutions that protect both communities and human dignity. Ramaphosa also reminded the nation that Bafana Bafana reflects South Africa’s values of “respect, tolerance, fairness and inclusivity”.

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