BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE- A vision once shared by Appointed Member of Parliament Prince Lindani for Eswatini to build a world-class stadium is now set to become a reality after His Majesty King Mswati III announced plans for the construction of a new 40 000-seat stadium.
In 2023, during a courtesy call by Members of Parliament to His Majesty at Mandvulo Grand Hall, Prince Lindani said Eswatini needed a stadium with a seating capacity of between 30 000 and 60 000 in order to position the country to host global sporting events.
Now, that vision has received royal backing.
His Majesty made the announcement during half-time of the Ingwenyama Cup final on Sunday between Green Mamba F.C. and Nsingizini Hotspurs F.C., sparking excitement among football supporters.
“We are going to build a new stadium. We are starting afresh, we are not extending,” said the King.
For many years, EmaSwati have expressed the desire for a bigger and more modern stadium that could host international matches and major sporting events, while giving local supporters a world-class football experience.
His Majesty further revealed that designs for the stadium are already underway, adding that the facility would help Eswatini host professional matches that meet FIFA standards.
The planned stadium will become the country’s largest sporting venue, significantly surpassing Eswatini’s current biggest stadium, which accommodates about 10 000 spectators.
The development is expected to strengthen the country’s sporting infrastructure and improve Eswatini’s chances of hosting regional and international football tournaments.
The announcement has also been viewed as a major milestone in advancing the aspirations previously raised by Prince Lindani regarding the need for a bigger and modern stadium that can place Eswatini on the global sporting map.
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(Courtesy Pic)
