By Thokozani Mazibuko
His Majesty King Mswati III toured the E35 million-worth Mkhuzweni Technical Centre in the Hhohho Region.
The Mkhuzweni Technical Centre is one of the country’s FIFA-supported centres implemented through the Eswatini Football Association (EFA).
This project aligns with the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs’ vision to develop sporting infrastructure in all four regions of the county and make sport accessible to emaSwati.
The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) has officially announced ambitious plans to enhance the country’s football infrastructure with the upcoming construction of a new technical centre in Mafutseni, set to break ground before the year’s end.
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This significant development was unveiled during a recent tour of the existing Mkhuzweni Technical Centre by His Majesty King Mswati III.
The Mkhuzweni Technical Centre, currently operational and boasting the potential to accommodate between 40,000 and 50,000 spectators, is envisioned to become a premier sporting venue – a goal that echoes the EFA’s commitment to elevating Eswatini’s football standards.
During the King’s visit, the EFA formally sought the monarch’s support in securing funding to build essential spectator stands, allowing the venue to reach its full capacity.
“We recognize the enormous potential of the Mkhuzweni Centre, and with the right resources, it can serve as a cornerstone for our sporting future,” said an EFA spokesperson.
“The construction of a new technical centre in Mafutseni is a step toward fostering local talent and improving the overall sporting framework in the Kingdom.”
Upon his arrival, King Mswati III received a legendary welcome from Prime Minister Russell Mmiso Dlamini and other cabinet ministers, highlighting the importance of these developments to the national agenda.
The King was presented with three cows one dedicated to the Queen Mother and two for His Majesty, symbolizing the gratitude and respect of the nation for his enduring support of frontline endeavours in Eswatini.
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The proposal to enhance football facilities aligns with the EFA’s long-term vision of nurturing talent and making Eswatini a competitive force in international football.
It also reflects the commitment of the royal family and government to fostering a vibrant sporting culture within the Kingdom.
It should be noted that as the projects unfold, stakeholders in the football community express optimism that the new infrastructure will foster grassroots development, provide better training facilities for players, and ultimately promote Eswatini on the regional sporting stage.
The King’s unwavering support, along with active collaboration with the EFA, marks a promising chapter in the evolution of Eswatini football, setting the foundation for future success and lasting legacies in the sport.
