By Thobile Ndlangamandla (Intern)
MBABANE – A strong investment in youth development has been made after Century Fashions and Easy Buy Managing Director Asraful Alam Chawdhuary committed E300 000 towards the Eswatini Children’s Cup 2026.
The sponsorship, launched on April 8 2026, will be rolled out over three years, with E100 000 contributed annually until 2028. This initiative reflects a growing commitment from the private sector to nurture young talent through sport.
Representing Deputy Prime Minister Thulisile Dladla, Makhosini Simelane officially unveiled the tournament and applauded the collaboration between SOS Children’s Villages, the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE), and corporate partners.
Simelane emphasised the value of sport in shaping young lives, stating, “Football is more than a game; it instills discipline, teamwork, and resilience, while providing children a platform to be mentored, celebrated, and inspired.”
Representatives from SOS Children’s Villages reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring every child grows up in a supportive and caring environment. They highlighted the importance of local support through the “Sakha Sivivane” fundraising campaign, launched in November 2025, which encourages collective national responsibility in supporting child development.
Simelane further praised the partnership, stating, “Such collaboration between government, corporates, and civil society is essential for creating opportunities and inspiring hope for our children.”
The Ministry of Sports Youth and Culture was also recognised for leveraging sport as a tool to develop responsible citizens and strengthen the nation.
The Eswatini Children’s Cup 2026 continues to stand as a platform of opportunity, demonstrating how strategic partnerships and sport can empower children and build a brighter future for the nation’s youth.
