BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE— In a vibrant show of support for Eswatini’s thriving arts sector, Liberty Life Eswatini and Stanlib Eswatini have injected a generous E50 000 sponsorship into choral music, directly benefiting the Mbabane Chamber Orchestra as the country’s choral music competition season continues to gather momentum.
The cheque handover took place on May 7, 2026, at the STANLIB offices in Mbabane, marking another milestone in the growing partnership between the financial institutions and Eswatini’s creative industry.
Liberty Life Eswatini Managing Director Mangaliso Shabangu said the sponsorship reflects a long-term vision of investing in the arts as a tool for unity, cultural preservation and community engagement.
“We are very excited to continue being part of the choral music journey. We believe strongly in the arts as a way of bringing communities together, preserving our rich musical heritage, and creating spaces where people can connect meaningfully. This is a long-term commitment to the growth of the industry,” Shabangu said.
Stanlib Eswatini Managing Director Mongi Dlamini also emphasised that the organisation views its support for choral music as part of its broader responsibility to national development and cultural sustainability.
“We have injected E50 000 into choral music because we believe the arts are a vital part of Eswatini’s cultural identity. Supporting music is not just about performance, but about nurturing talent, strengthening community bonds and investing in the country’s creative future,” Dlamini said.
The sponsorship comes at a crucial time, as Eswatini’s choral music competition season is currently in full swing, drawing choirs and vocalists from across the country into a series of high-profile national events.
The season includes the Solo Category Eliminations scheduled for May 10, 2026, at The George Hotel in Manzini, followed by the Standard Bank Choral Music Competition grand finale set for May 24, 2026, at Esibayeni Lodge in Matsapha. The winning choirs will later perform at the Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival on August 1–2, 2026, at House on Fire.
Speaking on behalf of the Mbabane Chamber Orchestra, Mongezi Simelane expressed gratitude, noting that the support comes at a critical time for growth and artistic development.
“This support strengthens our ability to train, perform and reach more young musicians across the country. It allows us to continue building a strong orchestral and choral presence in Eswatini,” Simelane said.
The President of the Eswatini National Choral Music Association, Sihle Gumbi, welcomed the sponsorship, highlighting the importance of private sector involvement in sustaining the arts.
“During the Standard Bank Choral Music Competition season, support like this is vital. It ensures that choral music remains active, competitive and continues to grow in relevance and participation,” Gumbi said.
The E50 000 injection is expected to support rehearsals, training programmes, performances and youth development initiatives, strengthening participation and artistic excellence within the sector.
As the 2026 choral music competition season intensifies, the partnership between Liberty Life Eswatini, Stanlib Eswatini and the Mbabane Chamber Orchestra stands as a strong endorsement of Eswatini’s creative economy, where music continues to unite communities and nurture talent.
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