They need to be taught water survival first. They must be able to keep their heads above water before you can teach them to swim. Before the abolition of apartheid in 1991, White clubs and Non-White clubs did not mix at all, even in competition. Steps are being taken toward total integration, but money is tight, and the obstacles are many. Mrs. Nicholson cites a number of problems that make success in swimming an uphill battle for South Africa.
Money is a big one.
Swimming is not a cheap sport. I don't think we stand a chance at the Olympics until we get some help from universities and other organizations. Nobody is interested enough to put up the funds. For the time being the financial backers don't have enough visibility in swimming. Facilities are also in great demand.