By Ncaba Ntshakala
The Inyatsi Schools Arts and Culture Competitions have begun with great enthusiasm and high spirits. This has been hailed to mark an exciting start to the season.
Sponsored generously by the Inyatsi Group Holdings through its corporate social investment arm, the Inyatsi Foundation, this competition is one of the largest school events in Eswatini, which features traditional dance forms such as Sibhaca, Ummiso, and Drum Majorettes.
At the sponsorship launch event last Friday, Inyatsi Head of Corporate Affairs Gcinekile Nxumalo made emphasis on the foundation’s commitment to His Majesty’s vision and the nation’s progress.
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“His Majesty’s vision of Eswatini attaining first-world status is a guiding light for our nation,” Nxumalo stated.
She highlighted the foundation’s dedication to excellence in education, arts, and culture, aligning with Inyatsi’s core values of Agility, Accountability, Commitment, Teamwork, and Embracing Change.
The regional competition began on Monday at the Simunye Stadium, where schools from the Lubombo region displayed their talents.
In the Ummiso category, Lavundlamanti High School outperformed others with an impressive score of 85.5%.
They were followed by Mabhensane High School with 75%, Phonjwane High School with 72.5%, and Mhlume High School with 48%.
In the Ingadla category, Lavundlamanti High School once again dominated with a stellar performance scoring 79%. Mabhensane High School followed closely with 76%, Mhlume High School Team 2 with 74%, Mhlume High School Team 1 with 60%, and Phonjwane High School with 52%.
The competition, currently in the elimination stages, will continue across all regions, which leads to the finals set for June 26-27.
On Tuesday, the competitions were held at King Sobhuza Memorial Stadium where they sparked considerable excitement among participants and spectators alike,
which has been lauded by emaSwati to showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic talent present in Eswatini’s schools.
Inyatsi Group Public Relations and Marketing Manager Ncobile Dlamini encouraged emaSwati to come and watch the competitions on the various venues.
On Wednesday the games will be held at Killarney Sports Field (also known as Rocklands) in Piggs Peak under Hhohho region.
It was shared that on Thursday they will be showcased at the country’s theatre of dreams, Somhlolo National Stadium and on Friday at Prince of Wales.
Dlamini also highlighted an opportunity for MSMEs as stalls are open for those who want to sell at a E500 fee.
