Simunye – The Royal Eswatini Sugar (RES) Corporation has committed a significant E400,000.00 to fortify grassroots football development in Eswatini.
This financial injection announced yesterday at Simunye is being split equally between two vital community initiatives, the Siyakha 1800 Youth Soccer Development Program and the Sakhelene Community Soccer League with each project to receive E200,000.00.
RES Corp’s commitment to nurturing young talent and strengthening community bonds across the Lubombo region is shown.
Speaking at the event, RES Managing Director Nick Jackson reaffirmed the company’s dedication to community development beyond its core business operations.
“Our goal is not only to produce talented players but also to build confident, responsible young citizens who can contribute positively to society,” he said.
The investment is seen as a crucial step toward shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for Eswatini football through sustained collaboration.
It will also boost the capacity of both programmes, which serve as key pillars for social and athletic development.
The Siyakha 1800 Youth Soccer Development Programme, now in its tenth year, provides aspiring young footballers with crucial access to structured, high-quality training and mentorship. Its mission is to instil discipline, teamwork, and personal growth in the next generation of football stars.
Beyond the funding, the Siyakha 1800 programme received 20 new soccer balls to directly support its training activities.
The RES Sakhelene Community Soccer League, established three years ago, continues to make a remarkable impact by uniting teams from 10 different communities. It creates safe and inclusive environments for recreation and social connection throughout the region.
To ensure effective operation of the league, two soccer balls were provided to each participating community, guaranteeing players have the necessary resources to train and compete. This practical support is crucial for maintaining the league’s momentum and outreach. The sponsorship launch itself was a well-attended event, highlighting the necessary partnership between corporate entities and football’s governing bodies.
Key figures present included EFA Deputy President Steve Horton, Technical Director Bizzah Mkhonta, and the Lubombo Regional Football Association Chairman. Their attendance stressed the importance of these collaborations in advancing the sport at the grassroots level. Such partnerships are viewed as essential for sustained growth in Eswatini football.
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