By Sizwe Dlamini
Build It Eswatini has renewed its long-standing partnership with the Eswatini Football Association (EFA), committing E560,000 for 2025.
The announcement was made by the Build It Eswatini national sponsorship spokesperson, Les Pillay, during the launch and draw of the Build It Eswatini Under-13 Championship 2025 held at Sigwaca House in Mbabane.
Speaking at the launch, Pillay expressed excitement about the ongoing partnership between Build It Eswatini and the EFA, which spans two decades.
“As Build It Eswatini, we are very excited and honored to continue this partnership with the Eswatini Football Association. Across Southern Africa, Build It hosts 230 such tournaments, which are spread across South Africa, Namibia, and Eswatini.For 2025, our sponsorship in Eswatini amounts to E560,000,” he said.
Also present at the event was Build It Eswatini Regional Retail Operations Manager, Loekie Uan Niekerk, who highlighted the company’s commitment to building not only communities but also individuals through their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
“At Build It, our passion is building people. We are proud to continue our long-standing Under-13 youth football sponsorship facilitated by our eight Build It Eswatini stores. This initiative builds communities through youth sports under the EFA’s Youth Development Office,” he said.
Niekerk added that the best Under-13 player, as identified by the coaches, will receive a Build It Eswatini sponsorship worth E10,000 to support their educational needs.
“This additional initiative was introduced five years ago and is crucial in allowing our young players to develop academically through sports. We are delighted to offer this opportunity which will ensure that our youth grow both on and off the field.
The tournament’s final will take place on January 25 at Mavuso Trade Centre, and the public is invited to come and witness the stars of tomorrow in action,” he added.
Also speaking at the event, Technical Director at the EFA, Bizzah Mkhonta, reflected on the impact of the Build It Under-13 Championship over the years.
“We are very happy to continue this wonderful relationship with Build It. Over the last two decades, this sponsorship has impacted the lives of 124 players, 72 coaches, and 52 referees.
The Under-13 Championship has led to the discovery of many talented individuals who have gone on to represent the national team at the international level, with great names like Calvin Maseko, Andrew Malaza, Muhle Maseko and Thembelihle Mavuso all emerging from this tournament,” he said.
After the speeches the gathered under 13 footballers then held a draw for the tournament, Steki will face Piggs Peak, Nhlangano will face, Siphofanani, Mbabane will face Buhleni, while Manzini will face Matsapha.