MBABANE – Huge exposure!
Eswatini’s burgeoning dance community has received a prestigious boost, with the kingdom securing an official invitation to the 2025 World Federation of Acrobatic Dances and Dance Sport (WFADS) Rock’n’Roll and Acro Swing World Cup.
The newly-formed Eswatini Federation of Acrobatic and Swing Dances (EFASD) confirmed the nation’s participation, marking a significant milestone in the country’s international dance ambitions.
The invitation, issued by WFADS President Oumy Sene, extends a warm welcome to the Eswatini delegation for both events, to be held in Moscow, Russia.
“This letter serves to invite the Eswatini delegation to the 2025 WFADS Acrobatic Rock’n’Roll World Cup, 2025 WFADS Acro Swing World Cup in Moscow, Russia. It will be held from November 23. Expected arrivals are from November 22 to 24,” the letter states.
Leading the team will be EFASD’s highly-respected trainer, Sisekelo Dlamini, whose vast experience is expected to guide the dancers through the high-stakes competition. Dlamini, who will travel with the squad, expressed optimism about the opportunity to showcase Eswatini’s talent on the global stage.
The three dancers representing Eswatini are Gugu Lukhele, Nothando Makhanya and Welcome Mavoka. “It still feels like a dream that I’ll be competing in my very first Acroswing competition, all the way in Russia. The excitement is unreal; just imagining the lights, the music and all the amazing dancers from around the world gives me goosebumps,” expressed Makhanya.
She further shared that, at the same time, the nerves are kicking in hard. “It’s a mix of thrill and fear, not knowing exactly what to expect. Still, deep down, I’m ready to give it my all and make this first experience one I’ll never forget,” she added.
Training will be held at MFSC Irina Viner Gymnastics Palace, 24 Luzhniki Street, Moscow.
Accommodation has been arranged at Hotel Azimut, 8 Smolenskaya Street, Moscow, on a half-board basis including breakfast and dinner. The organisers have committed to covering key expenses for participants, including economy-class return air travel to Moscow, hotel accommodation on a half-board basis and airport transfers to and from the hotel.
WFADS has also assured the safety and security of the Eswatini delegation throughout the event.
This marks EFASD’s second engagement with Russia, following a successful inaugural trip in which five local coaches completed an intensive training programme aimed at elevating them to world-class standards. That experience has laid a strong foundation for the federation’s growth, and the upcoming World Cup represents a natural progression in Eswatini’s dance development journey.
International dancers during a previous competition. Eswatini will compete in the World Cup in Russia. (Courtesy pic)