BY VUYISWA MABILA
MBABANE– Football in the Hhohho region has received a refreshing downpour of support quite literally as the Komati Basin Water Authority (KOBWA) has splashed out a generous E75 000 sponsorship package to the Hhohho Regional Football Association (HRFA).
The boost, which comes with both cash and equipment, promises to water the roots of grassroots football and breathe new life into competitions across the region. Out of the total, E25,000 has been ring-fenced for juniors – the future stars of Eswatini football. Alongside the cash injection, the youngsters will also receive two sets of kits, bibs, medals, balls, and referee garments. With schools now on break, junior matches are set to kick off immediately, ensuring that the holiday season is packed with football action.
But the support doesn’t end there. A further E50 000 has been directed towards senior competitions, which will run from September until the curtain falls at the end of May. This portion of the sponsorship will not only keep teams active and competitive, but also give KOBWA an opportunity to interact with communities and raise awareness about its mandate.
Football lovers have welcomed the partnership with excitement, noting that it not only fuels competition but also boosts morale for referees, administrators, and players alike.
“Our office expresses their gratitude to KOBWA for giving us a value amounting to E 75 000. On the E 75 000 there is a value of E25 000 foe the juniors to play now that schools are closed. On top of that there will be playing kits, beeps, medals, balls and referee garments which all ate in two packs .” Said Dlamini.
For HRFA, the moment could not have come at a better time. Officials described the donation as a “game-changer,” particularly because it strengthens both the grassroots and the elite side of the game. By focusing on juniors, the association hopes to nurture players who will one day don the Sihlangu Semnikati jersey, while the senior support will ensure competitive football thrives in Hhohho throughout the season.
With KOBWA’s sponsorship flowing into the region, Hhohho is set for a vibrant football season one that will see youngsters chase dreams during the school holidays, and seniors battle it out from September to May. Indeed, the beautiful game in the north has found its much-needed lifeline.
(Courtesy Pics)
