By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) is rejoicing following the announcement of an increment of E1.5 million in their budget allocation.
They will now receive E7.5 million, which will significantly contribute towards the national teams, particularly the Senior National Team, Sihlangu Semnikati. The Minister of Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, delivered the much-anticipated Budget Speech on Friday, February 14, 2025, in Parliament.
The Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, who was also present in Parliament, expressed his satisfaction with the budget increment, emphasising that it will greatly assist the national team in effectively participating in international tournaments.
This increment arrives at a crucial time when the EFA has been facing financial difficulties, especially as the country prepares to host Category A games under the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) outside the country.
This situation follows the ban on Somhlolo National Stadium and Mavuso Sports Centre from hosting these matches.
“Thanks to His Majesty King Mswati III’s government for increasing the budget, which will support the national teams and facilitate the completion of the ongoing renovations at Somhlolo National Stadium. It is our aspiration to see our national team playing home games here, and we are confident that this will be realised in no time following the increased budget,” he stated.
