BY VUYISWA MABILA
MATSAPHA– The Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA) has officially launched the Los Angels (LA) 2028 Athlete Scholarship Programme, committing E6 million with the support of Olympic Solidarity to prepare the nation’s top athletes for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
The launch took place at Esibayeni Lodge during the second edition of the Tinkhundla Talent Search, where EOCGA outlined its vision to put athletes at the centre of the country’s Olympic dream.
As part of the programme, six athletes have been selected to benefit from the scholarship. In swimming, the beneficiaries are Hayley Hoy and Luca Fraiser; in athletics, Bongiwe Mahlalela and Mayibongwe Vilakati; in judo, Lamulela Magagula; and in taekwondo, Gcinumuzi Nxumalo. These athletes will receive financial support and training resources over the next three years to intensify their qualification campaigns for the 2028 Games.
Speaking during the launch EOCGA president Adam “Bhombha” Mthethwa, emphasized that the E6 million commitment, marks one of the largest athlete support initiatives in the country’s history.
“This is indicative of our commitment and pledge towards our athletes and nation. These scholarships have been spread over five sporting codes. It is also important to state that all reciepients have signed their contracts.” Said Mthethwa.
The scholarship programme complements grassroots development efforts such as the Tinkhundla Talent Search, creating a pathway from talent identification to elite performance. By bridging this gap, EOCGA has reinforced its role as a driving force behind Eswatini’s Olympic aspirations.
With six athletes already identified, Eswatini is taking a decisive step forward in building a competitive presence at the LA 2028 Olympic Games.
(Courtesy Pic)
