Lebogang Maile reflects on return to Gauteng sports department

Maile, who previously served as MEC from 2010 to 2014, returned to the portfolio on 1 April after replacing Matome Chiloane.

The 46-year-old says one of the biggest challenges remains the department's limited budget. 

He admits balancing the needs of sport, arts, culture, and other government priorities is never easy, but believes the available resources must be used wisely to make a meaningful impact. 

Maile says returning to the department feels like coming home, as it was the portfolio where he first established himself as a public figure. 

The former Gauteng MEC for Finance and Economic Development, says accepting the position again was an easy decision because of his passion for serving the people through sport, arts and culture.

"14 years back when I was here, it was my first time in government as a MEC and I had to learn a lot. Coming back now, I have sixteen years of experience in government. This is a huge responsibility which I don't take for granted, and I think with all the experience and networks we created, we should be able to make a huge difference."

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During his first term, Maile introduced initiatives such as the Gauteng Cup, Gauteng Marathon, and the Gauteng Sports Awards. 

While some of those programmes have since fallen away, with last year's sports awards not taking place and uncertainty surrounding this year's Soweto Marathon, Maile says the department is working to revive and strengthen key sporting events in the province.

Maile says Gauteng remains a leading destination for hosting major sporting events. He believes the province must continue attracting high-profile rugby, football, and cricket matches, saying these events boost the economy while inspiring young athletes and promoting sport at all levels.