UNESWA, Kwaluseni – Sunday
Vulamasango School stole the show at the 2025 Eswatini Bank School Choral Competition, walking away as overall winners under the “Champ of Champs” category during the finals held at the UNESWA Sports Emporium.
The competition, which formed part of Eswatini Bank’s 20th anniversary of promoting music excellence in schools, brought together top-performing choirs from across the country. Vulamasango represented a full spectrum of choir categories—mixed choir, girls’ choir, boys’ choir, and trio—delivering standout performances that impressed both audience and judges.
The school opened with “Praise the Lord”, a set work from Handel’s Solomon, accompanied by the Mbabane Chamber Orchestra. They followed it up with “Kusekhaya la”, a spirited African composition by local composer Melisizwe Zwane. The performance incorporated traditional Swati instruments and dance, earning roaring applause.
One of the most memorable moments came during their rendition of Sitibili, where Vulamasango collaborated with Umbholoho, Ingadla, Sibhaca and Lutsango performers. The fusion of vocal harmonies, indigenous sounds and choreography brought the packed venue to its feet.
Commissioner General LaMakhosini Phindile Dlamini of His Majesty’s Correctional Services, who was present along with other senior officers, was visibly moved. “These are our kids. Their victory is our victory as a department and society as a whole,” she said, praising the students, teachers and organisers.
Vulamasango’s final results placed them in top positions in several categories:
- National Anthem – 1st place (85%)
- Sitibili – 1st place (86%)
- Western Piece – 1st place (86%)
- African Piece – 2nd place (84%)
- Trio – 3rd place (73%)
They amassed a total of 170 points and received E20,000 in prize money.
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