THE TRANSFORMATION ESWATINI SPORTS NEED
Dear reader, in his Speech from the Throne during the opening of the Second Session of the 12th Parliament of the Kingdom of Eswatini, His Majesty King Mswati III boldly declared 2025 as the Year of Transformation to the Promised Land. This vision is a clarion call for all sectors of Eswatini society, including sports, to align themselves with the transformation agenda laid out during the Parliament State Opening on Friday. Eswatini’s sporting landscape, while rich with potential, has remained underdeveloped and plagued by challenges that stifle its growth.
If we wish to elevate sports in the kingdom to international standards and ensure they contribute meaningfully to the broader national transformation agenda, then significant changes must be implemented. Below, key areas that require urgent attention are outlined.
1. Establishing a sports tribunal
One of the glaring issues in Eswatini sports is the lack of an efficient mechanism to resolve disputes. The absence of a dedicated sports tribunal has left associations and teams grappling with prolonged legal battles that drain resources and morale. Take, for instance, the current case of Manzini Wanderers, whose relegation saga has been stuck in court for over six months. Such delays are not only costly, but also detrimental to the development and smooth functioning of sports.
While the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) exists, it is often neglected. A local sports tribunal, therefore, represents a more practical and affordable solution. By establishing this tribunal, Eswatini can resolve disputes more efficiently, allowing teams and associations to focus on fostering talent and improving performance. This step will also reflect the kingdom’s commitment to aligning sports governance with the principles of transparency and justice.
2. Eradicating the use of foreign substances
The use of foreign substances in football continues to tarnish the reputation of Eswatini’s most beloved sport. Not only does it undermine the integrity of the game, but it also incites violence among players and fans, creating an unsafe environment in stadia. Football authorities must take a firm stand against this malpractice by issuing harsh punishments to those found guilty of using or promoting foreign substances.
Lifetime bans or multi-year suspensions will send a strong message to potential offenders. This will also help professionalise the game, making it more attractive to broadcasters, sponsors and fans alike. If Eswatini truly wants to compete on the international stage, there is no place for such practices. Clean, fair play should be the mantra moving forward.
3. Revitalising the national team
The Eswatini’s national football team, Sihlangu, have struggled to make a mark on the global stage. With four consecutive losses in the current International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) World Cup qualifiers, the dream of reaching the world’s biggest football stage remains distant. However, all hope is not lost. The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) must view this as an opportunity to focus on long-term development.
The upcoming Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) tournament provides the perfect platform to nurture young talent. A squad dominated by players under 23 years of age would not only give emerging stars invaluable experience, but also lay the foundation for a brighter future. Investing in grassroots football structures, scouting programmes and youth academies should be prioritised. The goal should be to create a pipeline of talent that can consistently compete at the highest levels.
4. Addressing infighting, promoting accountability
Infighting among sports federations has been a perennial issue in Eswatini. This internal discord often diverts attention from the real goal: developing athletes and improving performance.
To address this, federations must prioritise accountability and ensure their statutes align with the aspirations of their affiliates. Transparency in decision-making processes is key to fostering trust among stakeholders. Additionally, sports programmes should be athlete-centred, ensuring that resources directly benefit players rather than being misused by administrators.
5. Marketing, diversifying resources
Eswatini’s football clubs must rethink their approach to revenue generation. The days of relying solely on sponsors for funding are long gone. Clubs should actively market themselves within their communities to rebuild connections with fans. Initiatives such as hosting community events, engaging in social media campaigns and creating merchandise can help clubs strengthen their brands and attract more supporters to stadiums.
Increased attendance will naturally boost revenue from gate takings, making clubs more financially sustainable. For sports federations as a whole, resource diversification is crucial. Federations should explore income-generating projects such as hosting tournaments, offering coaching clinics or partnering with local businesses. These efforts can offset the rising cost of living and ensure consistent funding for their activities.
6. Enacting the Sports Bill
The government has promised a new stadium as part of its Programme of Action (POA),in the next few years. While waiting for this new facility, the existing Somhlolo National Stadium must be upgraded to meet international standards by mid-2025. Quality infrastructure is essential for hosting international tournaments, attracting foreign teams and inspiring local athletes to perform at their best. Additionally, enacting the long-overdue Sports Bill into law is a non-negotiable step towards professionalising Eswatini sports. This legislation will provide a clear framework for governance, development and investment in the sector.
7. Reclaiming glory for the ‘Big 3’
The so-called ‘Big 3’—Mbabane Swallows, Mbabane Highlanders and Manzini Wanderers—are not living up to their historic reputations. These giants must rise to the challenge and reclaim their dominance, not just to maintain their status, but also to inspire the next generation of players and fans. Strong performances from these clubs will elevate the overall quality of the league, attract more sponsors and create a more competitive environment.
8. Accelerating development in other sports
While football often dominates the conversation, other sports like athletics, boxing and swimming also hold immense potential. These disciplines are part of Eswatini’s podium performance programme, and their development should be accelerated to ensure the kingdom is competitive on the global stage.The dream of qualifying for the Olympics and earning a medal within the next 12 years is achievable if these associations implement robust development plans. Talent identification programmes, specialised coaching and access to modern training facilities are essential components of this journey.
Conclusion
While the above addresses many pressing issues, there are other ways to ensure Eswatini sports align with the Year of Transformation agenda. Educating athletes, coaches and fans about the importance of sportsmanship, professionalism and fair play can foster a more positive sports culture. Embracing digital platforms for ticket sales, match streaming, and fan engagement can modernise the sports experience and generate additional revenue. Collaborating with international sports bodies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and private sector entities can bring in expertise, funding and opportunities for local athletes.
Dear reader, transforming Eswatini’s sports sector is no small task, but it is a vital one. By addressing governance issues, investing in talent development and embracing innovation, the kingdom can unlock the immense potential of its athletes and teams. As we march towards the Promised Land in 2025, let us remember that sports are more than just games—they are a source of national pride, unity and opportunity. The time to act is now. Let us rise to the challenge and ensure Eswatini sports become a shining example of transformation and progress.
Until next time, keep cheering for our athletes and dreaming of a brighter sporting future.
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