MBABANE – By investing E70 000 in grassroots football, local beverage company Mandla Mahewu has reiterated its dedication to youth empowerment and community elevation.
The sponsorship, directed to the Mbabane Regional Football League, was officially launched at Sigwaca House in the presence of EFA CEO Frederick Mngomezulu and Hhohho Regional Football Association (HRFA) Chairman Dr Comfort Shongwe.
Speaking during the launch, Dr Shongwe hailed the sponsorship as a powerful example of how sports and local business can unite to strengthen communities.
“Football is about bringing people together, socialising, and helping one another even economically,” he said. “Let us be true ambassadors of the Mandla Mahewu brand; emahewu is enshrined in our culture.”
Shongwe described Mandla Mahewu as a “premium sponsor” that has played a key role in developing players who have gone on to represent Premier League and national teams. He urged clubs and players to uphold discipline and a healthy lifestyle, emphasising that the beverage promotes natural energy and clean living.
“Emahewu, do not dope,” he said, to laughter and applause. “You cannot be banned after drinking emahewu.”
The chairman also called on parents to get involved in their children’s sporting activities, noting that stronger family participation could help revive youth engagement and reduce inactivity.
“It’s time to get our inactive children moving again,” he said. “When parents are part of the teams, it benefits everyone; it strengthens the relationship between families and football.”
Highlighting the growing threat of technology-induced unemployment, Shongwe said investing in sports offers young people a meaningful and sustainable path.
He encouraged teams to take advantage of training opportunities offered by the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) to enhance the capacity of local coaches. The E70 000 sponsorship will go toward supporting league operations, talent development, and community football initiatives across the Mbabane region.
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