BY NONTSETSELELO DLAMINI (INTERN)
HARARE – The Eswatini Football Association (EFA) President Peter Samora Simelane secured a position during the COSAFA Elective General Assembly held in Harare, Zimbabwe, marking a major milestone for Eswatini football after being elected into the Executive Committee of the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations (COSAFA) for the 2026-2029 term.
Simelane joins the newly elected COSAFA Executive Committee alongside football administrators from Lesotho, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Angola, South Africa, Botswana, and Madagascar in a leadership team expected to guide football development, competitions, and governance in the region over the next four years.
The appointment is being viewed as a proud moment for Eswatini football, with supporters and stakeholders describing the election as recognition of the country’s growing contribution to football administration and development within Southern Africa.
The election took place during the COSAFA Elective General Assembly attended by football leaders from across the region, including CAF President Patrice Motsepe, who commended COSAFA member associations for their continued efforts in developing football across Southern Africa.
Newly elected COSAFA President Tariq Babitseng emphasised unity and collaboration during his address following the congress.“This is not a victory for one person or one nation. It is a victory for unity in Southern Africa,” said Babitseng.
Football analysts believe Simelane’s election could strengthen Eswatini’s voice in regional football matters, particularly in areas of youth development, governance, competitions, and technical advancement. Under Simelane’s leadership, the EFA has continued focusing on improving football structures, governance, and development programmes aimed at strengthening the local game and creating more opportunities for players and administrators.
COSAFA remains one of Africa’s most active regional football bodies, overseeing competitions and development initiatives involving Southern African nations affiliated to CAF and FIFA. The organisation plays an important role in promoting football growth, youth competitions, and regional collaboration.
Supporters and football stakeholders in Eswatini have since congratulated Simelane on the achievement, expressing optimism that his new role will help create greater opportunities for the continued growth and visibility of Eswatini football on the regional stage.
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