How Dlala Africa Provides Hope Nurturing Young Cricket Talent in Manenberg

Photo Credit: Supplied by Dlala Africa

Dlala Africa, a beacon of hope in the Manenberg community, often plagued by violence, is providing holistic support, nurturing cricket talent, and empowering future generations.

Manenberg, South Africa (17 October 2024) – In the heart of Manenberg township in Cape Town, lies a remarkable organisation that is working hard to make a profound difference and provide a holistic approach to supporting young people.

Dlala Africa provides nutrition, after-school homework support, mentorship, and a safe space to play cricket at the Ohio Sports Field.

The organisation offers a place where children can escape the harsh realities of their surroundings plagued by gang violence and discover their potential.

While tension and threats prevail on the periphery, the gangs know that this is a no-go area, allowing boys and girls from the community to meet to play together on this field.

Mentors making a difference

Professional cricket coach Shahied Adonis runs the Dlala Africa NGO program where he offers his time voluntarily, while Taz Mohammed heads up the after-school programme also voluntarily.

Their aim, together with coach Anees, is to keep children off the streets and away from the dangers that lurk nearby.

“Many of the children walk up to 3km to get to the field where they are provided a meal and assisted with schoolwork before heading to the nets for cricket practice.

“Dlala Africa serves meals to 100-120 children daily. And for some, this is their only meal,” shares Stuart Goulding, Dlala Africa Board Member.

Township cricketers soar to greater heights

Over the past few years Taz, Shahied, and Anees have nurtured young talent where top talent is rewarded with a bursary or scholarship to a prestigious school like Bishops Diocesan College, South African College Schools, or Wynberg Boys.

One of the organisation’s shining players, Abdallah Bayoumy has signed his first pro contract with WP Blitz.

Another rising star, Adnaan Lagadien just scored his debut hundred for the South Africa u19 Emerging Team. He went on tour recently with the Bishops Diocesan College’s 1^st cricket team and scored two double-hundreds in Sri Lanka!

“Many other first-division club teams have players who cut their teeth at the Ohio Sports Fields and have been mentored by Shahied before being given opportunities to serve as role models for those who follow.

“This window of opportunity means they can provide hope for their families and give back to the community,” adds Goulding.

Dlala Africa operates on R100,000 annually, serving 100-120 children each day.

The NGO is self-funded and with no principal donors, relies on the goodwill of the community.

“It is such a good cause to support, and Adnaan Lagadien is a testament to the large vein of untapped potential just waiting to be given a fair smack of the ball.”

To support Dlala Africa’s efforts in creating a brighter future for the youth of Manenberg email dlala.africanpo@gmail.com or stuartg@worldonline.co.za.