BY TENGETILE MWALI (INTERN)
KAKHOZA— Former Mbabane Highlanders midfielder Sipho Sibandze is spearheading a grassroots football revival in Kakhoza, bringing renewed hope to a community once known for producing some of the country’s finest talent.
The initiative, anchored by a three-day knockout tournament, drew 14 teams from surrounding areas including Mhobodleni, Sicelwini, Mhlaleni and New Village. Beyond the competition, the tournament served as a platform to rebuild local football structures and reignite community passion for the sport.
Mavaravara FC emerged champions after a tightly contested final against Sixty FC. The match ended 2-2 in regulation time before Mavaravara held their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties, sealing a dramatic victory and lifting the trophy.
The champions walked away with E7 000, gold medals and the trophy, while Sixty FC received E5,000 and silver medals. Sicelwini FC secured third place and E3 000, with Maherezi FC finishing fourth to claim E2 000. The remaining participating teams each received E1000, ensuring broader support across all sides involved.
The broader vision behind the initiative is to restore Kakhoza’s reputation as a football powerhouse by nurturing young talent and creating pathways into competitive leagues. Plans are already in place to reintroduce junior structures, with Under-15, Under-17 and Under-20 teams expected to form part of the development pipeline.
Kakhoza has a proud footballing history, having produced notable players such as Sibusiso Mdluli, Bright Komari Nxumalo, Bongani Silindza, Thokozani Mamba, Brian Dlamini, Simphiwe Ndlangamandla and Mcebo Mdluli, many of whom went on to represent top clubs in Eswatini.
As part of ongoing development efforts, Rockerfellers FC, identified as a promising youth side, will receive immediate support in the form of training gear and playing equipment. This move is expected to strengthen grassroots structures and ensure sustainability of the project.
Looking ahead, Sibandze’s vision extends beyond men’s football. Plans are underway to introduce a women’s tournament and social teams competition, with the next phase scheduled for the coming weekend and carrying a prize purse of E10 000.
The revival project signals a renewed commitment to community-driven football development, with a focus on inclusivity, youth empowerment and restoring pride in local sport.
#KakhozaFootball#GrassrootsFootball#EswatiniFootball
(Courtesy Pic)
