E5 million allocated annually
Lobamba – The 7th edition of the richly-sponsored Ingwenyama Cup has been officially launched with lucrative E15 million sponsorship.
The announcement was made by Ingwenyama Cup Chairman Prince Hlangabeza at Enkhanini yesterday, in the presence the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE) Chairman Polycarp Dlamini, David Myeni, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF) who are the sponsors, along with various football officials and dignitaries.
The E15 million sponsorship will be allocated E5 million annually, reflecting an increase of E3 million overall compared to the previous three-year term, which saw SMVAF invest E12 million at E4 million per year. The initial three-year sponsorship, commencing in 2015, amounted to E9 million until 2018. Cumulatively, the SMVAF sponsorship has now reached E36 million.
The regional tournament is scheduled to commence during the weekend of December 7-8, where the last 64 teams will compete. The subsequent round of matches will take place on December 14-15, featuring the last 32 teams, while the last 16 stage is set for the weekend of December 28-29. The quarter-finals and semi-finals are anticipated to begin early next year, with the announcement of the major tournament also expected in early January. The final four regional teams will join the 28 PLE teams. The defending champions of the Ingwenyama Cup, Green Mamba, triumphed over Mbabane Swallows with a score of 1-0, thanks to a penalty by Sabelo ‘Sikhali’ Ndzinisa, securing the E1.4 million first prize.
At the launch, Prince Hlangabeza expressed gratitude to His Majesties for the vision behind the sponsorship, which aims to promote not only elite teams, but also regional clubs and culture. He stated that the increase in sponsorship will depend on the tournament being free of violence. “This will facilitate an increase in sponsorship if we maintain decorum throughout the tournament. The launch of this tournament seeks to unearth talent, and it is evident that those engaged in sports often achieve greater wealth than those in business,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of encouraging participation in sports and cultural activities.
“To those involved in sports or cultural dances, it is imperative to conduct yourselves with care. The talent bestowed upon you by God must be nurtured. The increase in sponsorship is a direct result of the talent that their majesties observe during these events. We urge players and dancers to prepare diligently for the tournament. Everyone has the opportunity to win prizes; it will depend on your performance this year, or perhaps you may try again next year or in subsequent editions.” Meanwhile PLE Chairman Polycarp Dlamini expressed profound gratitude to His Majesty for his invaluable contributions.
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