By Siphesihle Dlamini
His Majesty King Mswati III delivered a powerful message about the importance of national identity during the Ingwenyama Cup Final held at the Somhlolo National Stadium on Sunday.
The tournament, which has become a cornerstone of Eswatini’s cultural and sporting calendar, served as a platform for the King to emphasize the significance of preserving the nation’s heritage and promoting physical health through sports.
In his address to a jubilant crowd, His Majesty King Mswati III stated, “A nation without identity is not strong enough.”
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This assertion underlined his belief that a strong cultural foundation is essential for the unity and resilience of the nation.
The King highlighted that Ingwenyama Cup as not just a sporting event, but a celebration of Eswatini’s rich traditions and cultural diversity.
“The Ingwenyama Cup Final is an important day of exhibiting sports and culture,” he remarked, stressing the dual role of the tournament in fostering both athletic prowess and cultural pride.
His Majesty pointed out that the competition serves as a vital link between various regions of the country, empowering local communities and encouraging participation from all walks of life, particularly the youth.
The King reflected on the inception of the Ingwenyama Cup, which was established to address the need for a platform that promotes both culture and sports. “We must preserve tradition and culture.
The Ingwenyama Cup promotes sports, which are instrumental in maintaining physical health,” he explained, noting the positive impact of sports on the well-being of individuals.
HMK expressed his delight at the enthusiastic participation of young people in cultural activities, stating, “I am always very happy with participation, especially young people in culture.”
The King said this focus on youth engagement is crucial, as it not only nurtures the next generation of athletes but also instils a sense of pride and belonging among the youth of Eswatini.
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The King envisions well the future of Eswatini’s sports scene. He shared his aspirations for the Ingwenyama Cup to serve as a breeding ground for exceptional talent, particularly in football.
“I envision a team of stars that would compete in AFCON and World Cup Championships,” he declared.
His Majesty concluded by expressing his wishes for the Ingwenyama Cup to continue bringing joy to the nation.
“The Ingwenyama Cup Final is a day of celebration and fostering a sense of national pride.
