The Afrikaner civic group Betereinders has commissioned and erected two billboards featuring Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, sparking renewed discussions on race and national unity in South Africa. These installations emerged just days before the G20 Summit was set to commence in Johannesburg, and they follow the controversial removal of a banner by Solidarity which asserted South Africa was the “most race-regulated country in the world.”

Images of the new billboards were shared by Betereinders on their Facebook account. The displays prominently feature Siya Kolisi, who recently celebrated his 100th test cap. One image captures Kolisi being triumphantly carried on the shoulders of his white Afrikaner teammates, Eben Etzebeth and RG Snyman, symbolizing camaraderie that transcends racial lines within the sport. The second image shows Kolisi engaging directly with white rugby fans, taking selfies, further illustrating a connection with a diverse fan base. A powerful message is superimposed across these visuals, stating: “Terrible things are happening in South Africa.” The president of Betereinders has also been noted for accusing the government of promoting a “white genocide,” a claim that has been widely debunked.

In stark contrast to the messages of societal distress and division propagated by Betereinders, Siya Kolisi himself is a well-known public advocate for gender equality, racial equality, and the transformative power of sport to foster unity among South Africans. Following the Springboks’ victorious 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign, the Zwide-born captain delivered a passionate speech. He highlighted the nation’s struggles, stating: “There’s so much going wrong in our country, we are the last line of defence. There’s so much division in the country. It is possible to work together as South Africans, not just on the rugby field, but in life in general.” Kolisi’s consistent message underscores his belief in collective effort and reconciliation, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the divisive rhetoric and serving as a beacon for a unified South Africa through the spirit of shared national identity and achievement in sport.