EZULWINI – Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima has applauded MTN Eswatini for its unwavering commitment to football development, describing the telecommunications giant as a key partner in growing the sport and empowering young people across the country.
Speaking during the 2025/26 MTN Premier League Awards Night held at Royal Villas in Ezulwini on Thursday evening, the minister said MTN’s continued investment in football had helped create opportunities for athletes while contributing to national development.
Nzima said the awards ceremony coincided with the opening of the FIFA World Cup 2026, making the occasion even more significant as the football world celebrated excellence at both global and local levels.
He noted that the World Cup served as a reminder that every football star begins their journey in local leagues and community structures before reaching the global stage.
“The stars who will grace the global stage over the coming weeks started in local leagues, community grounds and youth development structures. This serves as a powerful reminder to our young players that with hard work, commitment and the right support structures, their dreams are valid and achievable,” he said.
The minister said the evening was not only about presenting trophies and prizes but also recognising the dedication and sacrifices made by players, coaches, administrators, sponsors and supporters throughout the season.
He congratulated all 16 clubs that participated in the MTN Premier League, saying each team had played a role in improving the standard of football in Eswatini.
“While there can only be one champion, every team that competed has played a significant role in strengthening the standard of football in Eswatini,” said Nzima.
Special praise was reserved for MTN Eswatini, which has sponsored the country’s top-flight football league for more than two decades.
“I wish to extend special appreciation to MTN Eswatini for their continued investment and support of football development. Such partnerships are critical in ensuring that our athletes have opportunities to showcase their talent while contributing to the growth of the sport and the economy,” he said.
Nzima described football as one of the most effective tools for youth empowerment, social development and nation-building.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an environment that enables young people to participate in sport and maximise their potential.
According to the minister, the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs continues to support talent identification and development initiatives aimed at ensuring that promising athletes from all regions of the country are given opportunities to succeed.
He said the future of Eswatini football depended on strong grassroots programmes, quality coaching, youth development structures and sustainable investment in sports infrastructure.
The minister urged stakeholders to use the inspiration provided by the FIFA World Cup to strengthen efforts aimed at improving football standards in the country.
“As we celebrate tonight’s achievements, let us also look ahead with renewed determination to elevate Eswatini football to greater heights,” he said.
Nzima said the collective goal should be to build a competitive and professional football industry capable of producing players who can compete successfully at continental and international level.
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