By Odwa Mkentane
The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Education, Sciences and Creative Industries, Makhi Feni, says the Department of Basic Education must urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the controversial “Bokkieweek” sporting event held in Limpopo.
The call follows allegations that only Afrikaans-medium schools participated, that the apartheid-era anthem was sung, and that teams were grouped according to South Africa’s pre-1994 provincial boundaries.
Feni said it was concerning that the committee first became aware of the event through media reports and called on the relevant authorities to establish whether it was consistent with South Africa’s constitutional values of equality, non-discrimination and social cohesion.
Meanwhile, Afrikaner Volkseie Sport (AVS) has defended the event. In a media statement issued after this year’s Bokkieweek, held in Naboomspruit from 6 to 10 July, the organisation said it had received overwhelmingly positive feedback from players, parents, supporters and visitors.
According to the statement, many supporters expressed their appreciation on social media, with recurring themes of gratitude, pride and appreciation for what the organisation described as a sporting event that means far more than just sport to many Afrikaner families.
“The dust had barely settled after Bokkieweek 2026, yet one thing already stands out clearly: the overwhelmingly positive feedback from players, parents, supporters and visitors who experienced the week firsthand.
“Several parents wrote that they were impressed by the organisation, the sportsmanship and the atmosphere that prevailed both on and off the field throughout the week.
“The positive experiences shared by so many families reaffirm why Bokkieweek has held a special place in the hearts of thousands of Afrikaner families for 35 years, and why so many participants look forward to the next Bokkieweek with anticipation year after year. After 35 years, Bokkieweek is indeed part of Afrikaner culture,” the statement reads.
Photo: Facebook/Bokkieweek
