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MANZINI MUNICIPALITY LAUNCHES E45 000 CITY WARDS SOCCER TOURNAMENT

By Xolisile Sacolo | 2025-03-25

MANZINI Municipality has officially launched the Manzini City Wards Soccer Tournament, with an investment of E45 000 aimed at fostering local talent and promoting community engagement through sports.

The launch event took place yesterday at the Manzini Municipality offices, marking the beginning of a significant initiative for the city’s grassroots soccer development.
The tournament will feature 12 wards competing over the next three weekends, with matches commencing this weekend at Zakhele Sports Ground. Unlike conventional tournaments that offer monetary prizes, this competition will focus on honouring participants with trophies and medals.

Deputy Mayor Wesley Dlamini, speaking on behalf of City Mayor Goodwill Dlamini, underscored the municipality’s dedication to sports development. He emphasised that the tournament would be strictly reserved for players from the local wards, excluding those competing in the National First Division and the Premier League of Eswatini (PLE). This decision, he explained, aims to create a level playing field and offer grassroots players an opportunity to showcase their abilities. “We have a clear vision for sports development and we believe that with time and effort, it will yield positive results. However, we acknowledge that there is still much work to be done,” he said.

He also highlighted the municipality’s broader four-year sports development plan. He expressed confidence that the initiative would lead to improved sports infrastructure and more opportunities for young athletes in Manzini.
Manzini Municipality acting CEO Zweli Maphanga also commented on the significance of the event, stating that the tournament promises to be a vibrant celebration of local talent.

He urged community members to support their respective teams, emphasising the importance of unity and pride in the city.
“Manzini community members are encouraged to come out and support their local teams, fostering a sense of unity and pride within the city. As the kick-off approaches, anticipation builds for what is expected to be an exciting series of matches showcasing the spirit of competition and the love of soccer in the community,” he said.

Furthermore, Manzini Football Regional Association (MRFA) representative Muzi Mthethwa announced that all participating players must register using their national Identity Cards (ID). He also encouraged the community to attend in large numbers to support the tournament.
As the tournament gets underway, excitement continues to build among players and spectators alike, reinforcing the role of sports as a unifying force within the Manzini community.

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