By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – On Saturday, the small town of Madlangampisi came to a standstill as the Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC) and its partners arrived with the Shukuma Eswatini programme.
One had to be present to truly comprehend the magnitude of the event.
The occasion was graced by the presence of the Minister of Sports, Culture, and Youth Affairs, Bongani Nzima, along with Members of Parliament, including those from the Parliament Sports Portfolio Committee, senior government officials, the ESRC CEO and board members, traditional authorities, and various sports officials.
Notably, the Minister Bongani Nzima led by example, participating in the opening 8km walk, which traditionally marks the commencement of the day’s activities.
ESRC Media Officer Dumisani Ntiwane remarked that following the walk, renowned fitness instructor and official fitness partner, Fikile Mziyako from the S Team, guided participants through a vigorous aerobic session that felt akin to a five-hour workout.
“That is just how demanding the session was. We have come to embrace Fikile’s robust and vigorous approach as part of our identity. Recognised National Sports Associations attended alongside the ESRIC corporate and social partners. A Shukuma event cannot exist without our partners. This is the essence of Shukuma – we empower our community. With Shukuma, even small businesses flourish, as our activities serve as a hub for commerce. Indeed, our flagship programme for mass participation has evolved into a premier platform for public engagement,” he stated.
Ntiwane noted that numerous National Sports Associations participated in what was a uniquely enjoyable day.
“The residents of Madlangampisi and surrounding areas were treated to a variety of sports, including teqball, table tennis, cricket, children’s athletics, athletics, karate, volleyball, tennis, rugby, and many other activities. It was truly a day filled with enjoyment. Our corporate sponsors also played a significant role in this memorable event, with prominent companies such as Standard Bank, MTN Eswatini, 8Bet, Shiselweni Funeral Parlour, and others participating.
Additionally, some of our social partners, such as the police Crime Prevention Unit, contributed significantly by raising awareness about crime and preventative measures,” he added.
A total of seven families also benefited from the ESRIC CSI initiative.
