The United Progressive People Alliance (UPPA) declares the UPPA Knysna Launch Rugby Festival a resounding success. Held on 24 and 25 October 2026 at Safe Hub, White Location, Knysna, the festival brought players, match officials and supporters together for a well-attended weekend of local rugby.

Players competed with commitment while supporters backed their teams across the terraces and grass banks. UPPA thanks every participating team, the match officials and everyone who attended. We extend special appreciation to our FIXERS, whose work helped bring the festival together.

UPPA apologises to the residents of Ward 4 for the inconvenience caused by traffic and noise during the festival. We appreciate residents' patience and recognise our responsibility to consider the impact of events on surrounding households when planning future activities.

The festival provides a foundation for the work ahead. UPPA will pursue a broader rollout of grassroots sport and recreational activities in Knysna, including indigenous games and activities that celebrate culture and heritage. These priorities will shape the next phase of our community work.

Our aim is to create regular opportunities for people to play, develop their skills and participate in the cultural life of their community. Indigenous games and the sharing of local traditions will have a place in this programme, helping to pass knowledge between generations.

Grassroots sport and recreation deserve sustained attention in local development. Accessible, well-maintained spaces matter, and local clubs and residents should be heard as this work develops. Careful organisation and respect for neighbouring households must be part of that approach.

UPPA is proud to have hosted this festival. We will build on its momentum with a sustained commitment to community activity in Knysna.