By THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE– Eswatini Football Association (EFA) Vice President and Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Chairman Polycarp Dlamini has made emphasis on the country’s commitment to ensuring that football is played in safe, secure and inclusive environments.
Dlamini made the remarks during the official opening of the EFA Safety, Security and Safeguarding Workshop held at Sigwaca House in Mbabane on June 15, 2026. The two-day workshop, which runs from June 15 to 16, has brought together football administrators, coaches, officials and other stakeholders to strengthen capacity in safety management and safeguarding practices.
Welcoming participants and facilitator, Humphery Tlhobelo, from South Africa, Dlamini said the gathering demonstrated a shared commitment to one of the most important aspects of football development – the protection and well-being of everyone involved in the sport.
“As the Eswatini Football Association, we are committed to ensuring that football remains a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for players, officials, supporters, volunteers and all stakeholders,” he said.
Dlamini noted that while football was synonymous with competition, entertainment and development, it had to be underpinned by safety, respect and dignity.
He stressed that football administrators had a responsibility that extended beyond what happened on the field of play, saying all football-related spaces, including stadiums, training facilities, changing rooms, team camps and offices, should provide environments where people feel secure and valued.
“The importance of safety and security in football cannot be overstated,” Dlamini said, adding that effective planning was essential for the successful organisation of matches and events.
He said proper safety and security measures protected lives, preserved the integrity of the game and enhanced the overall football experience for both participants and spectators.
Dlamini also drew special attention to the significance of safeguarding, describing it as more than a policy requirement.
“Safeguarding is a commitment to protecting children and vulnerable individuals from harm, abuse, exploitation and neglect. It is about creating environments where everyone can participate in football with confidence, knowing that their welfare is a priority,” he said.
He reminded football leaders, coaches and administrators that they had been entrusted with the care of many young people who viewed football as a pathway to growth, opportunity and hope.
Dlamini said the workshop had come at a critical time as the EFA continued strengthening its structures and aligning itself with international best practices promoted by FIFA, CAF and other football stakeholders.
Participants are expected to engage in discussions and practical sessions focusing on safety management, event security planning, risk assessment, emergency preparedness and safeguarding principles.
Dlamini encouraged attendees to actively participate and ensure that the knowledge gained during the workshop was implemented within their clubs, regions and institutions.
He emphasised that the success of football should not only be measured by goals scored or trophies won, but also by the ability of administrators to provide safe environments for everyone involved in the game.
“When safety, security and safeguarding are prioritised, football becomes stronger, more inclusive and more sustainable,” he said.
Dlamini concluded by calling on stakeholders to reaffirm their collective commitment to protecting both the game and the people who make it possible before officially declaring the EFA Safety, Security and Safeguarding Workshop 2026 open.
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(Courtesy Pic)
