By Mbongeni Ndlela
LOBAMBA – “I support all of them,” declared His Majesty King Mswati III with a smile, radiating the spirit of unity and sportsmanship during his halftime interview at the Ingwenyama Cup Final.
The King’s heartfelt words set the tone for a day that was not only about football glory but also about celebrating Eswatini’s culture and togetherness.
The Somhlolo National Stadium was filled to capacity as football fans witnessed Royal Leopard claim a narrow 1–0 victory over Moneni Pirates. Yet beyond the pitch, it was His Majesty’s uplifting message that resonated across the nation.
Describing the event as “a great day of celebration, a great day of fanfare, a great day of showcasing the rich tapestry that is Swati culture,” the King highlighted the tournament’s unique role in blending cultural preservation with sporting excellence.
“It is important that we maintain our traditions and culture, as well as promoting sports, because it is good for our physical health and for our life,” His Majesty stated.
He also spoke about the origins of the tournament, explaining that the idea was conceived years ago as a way to foster national identity and engage the youth. “There are a lot of young people participating full force, especially when it comes to culture. That is very encouraging because we want to keep the nation with an identity. Without it, it is not strong enough—but with identity, it is strong.”
The King expressed optimism about the future of football in Eswatini, saying the long-term goal is to build a national team capable of qualifying for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). “This is where they are doing their practice,” he said, referring to the Ingwenyama Cup as a vital training ground for future champions.
With his closing words—“I hope happiness is one thing… it is a day of celebration”—the King reminded the nation that unity, joy, and cultural pride are the true victories of the day.
