MBABANE – Eswatini rugby is set for a revitalization after receiving a renewed E25 000 sponsorship from MulaSport. The funding, announced yesterday at the Eswatini Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association (EOCGA), will help the Eswatini Rugby Union (ERU) expand its competitions and strengthen player development structures.
The E25 000 sponsorship represents a E5 000 increase from last year, providing much-needed support for rugby in Eswatini, where financial constraints had previously led to reduced events and competitions.
ERU President Bandile “Samba” Vilakati said the funding would allow the union to restore previously dropped competitions and create additional playing opportunities for both senior and youth players. He added that the limited funds had previously restricted the number of fixtures the union could organize.
“This assistance now enables us to schedule more events and strengthen the pathway from grassroots to senior rugby,” said Vilakati. He also mentioned that young athletes would now have clearer routes to reach competitive levels.
The first beneficiary of the sponsorship will be the resumption of knockout games for the 10s senior rugby competition, starting this Saturday. Four senior clubs will compete, with women’s matches included as curtain-raisers. This addition is part of a deliberate effort to increase participation and visibility for female players.
Vilakati also emphasized that more competitions would provide a vital platform for identifying new talent and supporting the recruitment of players for the Senior National Rugby Team, Sizese.
MulaSport’s Phestile Xulu said the company’s decision to increase its sponsorship reflects growing confidence in the direction of Eswatini rugby. Xulu described the support as an investment in the future of the sport, going beyond just financial backing.
The Eswatini Sports and Recreation Council (ESRC) also welcomed the renewed partnership. Zama Tsabedze, Business Development Officer at ESRC, commended MulaSport for its ongoing commitment to sports development in Eswatini, noting that their support extends across various sports disciplines.
Discussion about this post