Its purpose is to provide a platform where policies can be translated into practice and a national sports plan for the country can be finalised

SPORT and Recreation Minister Fikile Mbalula has begun his preparations for the National Sport and Recreation Indaba by holding a series of meetings with all stakeholders.

The indaba, which Mbalula wants to use to map the way forward for sport and recreation, will take place at Gallagher Estate in Midrand on November 21 and 22.

Mbalula, who has been praised by many people for prioritising transformation in sports, will be meeting senior sports executives at a meeting in Rosebank today.

Mbalula said: "We are currently in the process of consultation with politicians, unions, leagues, youth organisations, donors, selected NGOs, the education sector and the media.

"It is our desire that the thoughts and opinions of all sport-loving people in their organised and voluntary formations will result in a vibrant debate and solid platform for national dialogue at the indaba.

"The indaba is a direct result of a landmark strategic planning workshop held in January 2011."

He said the ANC Study Group, Portfolio Committee on Sport and Recreation, as well as the Select Committee on Education and Recreation have also been briefed about a process that is set to transform sport in South Africa.

"The purpose of the indaba is more than just creating conducive environments, providing resources and facilities and providing scientific support and training.

"Its purpose is intended to pave the way forward for sport in South Africa, to provide a platform where sport and recreation issues can be discussed frankly and without prejudice and where policies can be translated into practice and a national sports plan for the country can be finalised," Mbalula said.