By Nosipho Mabuza (Intern)
LOBAMBA – Traditional beats, synchronized steps, and the roar of cheering crowds filled the air as learners from across Eswatini brought their A-game to the Inyatsi Foundation Schools Competition Finals, held yesterday (June 19, 2025), at the EFA Technical Centre in Lobamba.
From heart-pounding military drills to high-energy Kwaito routines and soulful Ummiso performances, the event turned into a grand stage for cultural excellence, youthful creativity, and school spirit.
Eight primary schools competed under the banner of the Eswatini Schools Ummiso Association, showcasing rhythm, poise, and unity.
Sigcineni Primary danced their way to victory in Ummiso with 83%, closely trailed by Global Revival and Nyanyali.
In Ingadla, Global Revival Primary wowed with 88%, edging out Mangwaneni (78%) and Sigcineni (77%).
Overall winner: Global Revival Primary School, scoring an impressive 80.5% average across both categories.
Sibhaca Steals the Show
The thundering footwork of Sibhaca echoed as the Eswatini Schools Sibhaca Association crowned:
St. Aidans Primary School – a stunning 91.495%
Nyanyali Primary – 90.33%
Sigcineni Primary – 88.995%
Honourable mentions go to Mbabane SAGM, Tshaneni, and Global Revival Primary — all scoring above 80%.
The modern performance categories were packed with energy and flair:
Military Drill: Maliyaduma Primary
Show Prop: SOS Primary School – 95.5%
African Dance: SOS again – 97%
Kwaito Girls: Tshaneni Primary – 96.8%
Kwaito Boys: SOS Primary – 96%
Drill: Maliyaduma Primary – 95.5%
The older learners brought polished choreography, military precision, and serious flair:
Military Drill: MDS High School – 96.8%
Show Prop: Somnjalose High School – 96.5%
Cheer Girls: Somnjalose – 97%
African Dance: Somnjalose – 97.5% (just ahead of St. Marks at 97.3%
Kwaito Girls & Boys: Somnjalose swept both titles
Cheer Complex: Somnjalose – 98% (highest score of the day!)
Show Novelty: Enhlanganisweni High School – 96.8%
Drill: Inyandza High School
The competition, which ran from 10 AM to 5 PM, was not just about trophies — it was a tribute to Eswatini’s rich cultural roots and the creative power of its youth.
“This competition keeps our traditions alive while allowing the youth to innovate and express themselves,” said Ronnie Gamedze, President of the Eswatini School Art and Culture Association.
As the drums quieted and dancers took their final bows, one thing was clear — the future of Eswatini’s cultural arts is in talented, passionate hands.
