Mbabane – Melusi Staladi Dlamini, the founder of Eswatini-based social media platform Street Talk, has been named Zikomo Sportsman of the Year at the 2025 Zikomo Africa and Caribbean Awards, marking a major milestone for local digital sports storytelling.
The award was announced after the Zikomo Awards ceremony held in Tanzania on December 17, where organisers recognised Dlamini for his contribution to sports promotion and digital engagement across Africa. Although Dlamini did not attend the ceremony, the awards organisers confirmed that the honour remained fully valid and arrangements for the delivery of the trophy would be communicated.
Zikomo Africa and Caribbean Awards Ambassador Diamond King conveyed the news in an official letter addressed to Street Talk, congratulating Dlamini on the achievement. The letter described the award as recognition of his dedication, discipline and impact in sports, noting that his work continues to reach audiences across Africa and the Caribbean.
Street Talk reacted to the recognition by describing the win as a shared achievement for the platform and its followers in Eswatini. The team said the nomination alone carried great meaning, as it reflected growing recognition of their work beyond the country’s borders.
“For Street Talk, just the nomination alone is a celebration for us because someone out there sees what we are doing and wants it to be celebrated across Africa,” the platform said. “Siyabonga kakhulu.”
Dlamini, widely known as Staladi, has built a strong following through Street Talk by consistently sharing sports stories, athletes and moments that often receive little attention. His grassroots approach and focus on authenticity have earned him respect within Eswatini’s sports community and beyond.
The Zikomo Africa and Caribbean Awards celebrate excellence across multiple sectors, recognising individuals whose work contributes to their industries and communities.
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