THE Springboks cookie jar is overflowing with money. This after MTN South Africa contributed R30 million to the SA Rugby Growth Fund.
The cellphone network made the announcement on Thursday, 2 November during the team's trophy tour in Gauteng.
For the next three years, the fund will clock at least R10 million per year, which forms part of the network's effort to recognise the Springbok’s victory at the Rugby World Cup.
MTN SA CEO Charles Molapisi congratulated the Boks.
“We are deeply privileged to have been a part of this journey alongside the Springboks. Each one of you has consistently shown us what nation building, unity and unwavering dedication can achieve.
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"The R30 million contribution is expected to help SA Rugby ensure the next generation of players of this ability can be discovered from every corner of the country to ensure the next Siya is nurtured and developed though the rugby ranks," said Molapisi.
During the Boks' eagerly awaited trophy tour, which kicked off in in Tshwane on Thursday, the team stopped at MTN’s headquarters for lunch.
They then moved to Joburg before heading to Soweto. The team was in Cape Town on Friday, 3 November and will be in KZN and Eastern Cape over the weekend.
Adding to his appreciation of the Boks, Molapisi said: “Our longstanding partnership with the Springboks has been instrumental in driving significant social change over the years, touching the lives of South Africans from all walks of life. As a country, we needed this.”
He not only thanked the team for their hard work, but thanked the coaches and management team, South African Rugby Union and its technical team for enabling the country to be in the action right alongside the Boks.
