BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MANZINI – The Ingwenyama Cup continues to play a vital role in community development across Eswatini, using sport and culture as powerful platforms to unite communities, nurture talent, and promote social cohesion at grassroots level.
The tournament’s growing impact was highlighted during the official draw, where Prince Hlangabeza reaffirmed His Majesty King Mswati III’s call for the private sector to actively support initiatives that strengthen communities through culture and sport. The Ingwenyama Cup has increasingly become a strong response to that call, attracting partners committed to uplifting communities.
This focus was evident during the grand opening on Sunday, which brought together communities, traditional leaders, football teams and supporters in a vibrant celebration of unity. Beyond competitive football, the event created space for social interaction, cultural expression and shared identity, reinforcing the tournament’s role as a powerful community-building platform.
Speaking after the event, Emlembe Water CEO Jordan Levendale said the company’s involvement is driven by the tournament’s social value rather than commercial gain. He noted that the Ingwenyama Cup reaches communities directly, creating moments of pride, inclusion and opportunity, particularly for young people at grassroots level.
The SMVAF CEO echoed these sentiments, saying the Ingwenyama Cup has grown into more than a sporting competition. He emphasised that the tournament contributes to social development by bringing activities closer to communities, encouraging positive engagement and strengthening ties between institutions, traditional structures and the public.
As matches and cultural activities unfold across the country, the Ingwenyama Cup continues to demonstrate how sport and culture can be used as powerful tools for community development, fostering unity, promoting participation and reinforcing the shared values that bind Eswatini’s communities together.
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