Mahatma Gandhi and his association with South Africa football

Mahatma Gandhi played a crucial role in founding both the Transvaal Indian Football Association and the Klip River District Indian Football Association in South Africa. According to Peter Alegi, a professor of African History at Michigan State University, these associations were noteworthy as they marked the “first organized football group in Africa not controlled by white authorities.”

Gandhi’s contributions extended to the establishment of three clubs in Durban, Pretoria, and Johannesburg, all bearing the name “Passive Resisters Soccer Club.”

The matches involving the Passive Resisters not only promoted football but also contributed to supporting the families of imprisoned social activists.

Additionally, Gandhi played a role in nurturing the Moonlighters Football Club in Johannesburg, which was formed by indentured Indian laborers. This club, although now defunct, was another testament to Gandhi’s influence on football in South Africa.

In summary, Gandhi’s efforts laid the foundation for a structured football institution in South Africa, paving the way for the emergence of pioneers in modern football within the country.

Additional Fact: Mahatma Gandhi Heberpio Mattos Pires or just Mahatma, is a Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a defender for Iporá, a premium football club of Brazil