BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE (INTERN )
MANZINI – The Inyatsi Art and Culture Schools Competition took place in Manzini on June 2, 2025, showcasing a remarkable display of talent from primary and high school students across the region.
Sponsored by the Inyatsi Foundation,the event highlighted the creative abilities of over 20 competing schools.
The competition was graced by esteemed figures such as Stanley Dlamini the CEO of the Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture, and Ronnie Gamedze, President of the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Association, adding prestige to the event.
Students participated in various categories, including:
– Military
– Show Prop
– Cheerleading
– Drill
– Street Drill
– African Dance
– Kwaito
– Traditional cultural dances (Ummiso, Sibhaca, Umzingili)
The competition ran from 09:15 AM until late,allowing ample time for schools to display their talents.
Ekukhanyeni High School emerged as the standout winner with an impressive overall score of 98.3%,claiming first place in multiple categories including Military, Show Prop, and Kwaito Boys.
Gundwvini High School followed closely in second place with 96.5%, showcasing strong performances particularly in Military and Kwaito Boys.
St. Theresa’s High School secured third place with a score of 95.9%, excelling in the Cheer Girls category with a first-place finish.
The Inyatsi Art and Culture Schools Competition serves not only to celebrate artistic excellence but also to promote a sense of community and collaboration among students in the Manzini region. With the ongoing support of the Inyatsi Foundation, this event has become essential for cultural development in Eswatini.
As the event wrapped up, participants left feeling accomplished and inspired, eagerly looking forward to upcoming competitions in other regions of Eswatini. The future of arts and culture in the country appears bright, driven by the passion and creativity of its young artists.
