EZULWINI – Government has commended FNB Eswatini on their 30th anniversary and their consistent investment in local sport, particularly the FNB Eswatini Challenge.
Speaking on behalf of His Majesty’s Government, Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima, noted the significant E2 million sponsorship for this year, which elevates FNB’s total investment in the Challenge to E8 million in just four years.
He emphasised the critical role of public-private partnerships in unlocking the sports sector’s potential and fostering sustainable livelihoods.
Minister Nzima further welcomed the new prize for top local players as a morale booster and acknowledged FNB’s sustained support for junior golf development.
The best liSwati will get E30 000. He challenged local golfers to aim for the top prize, noting previous international winners and urged emaSwati to extend their renowned hospitality to all tournament guests.
Both officials thanked FNB and all partners, reiterating that the challenge signifies a kingdom moving forward with purpose and unity.
Eswatini Tourism Authority (ETA) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Vusi Dlamini, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the shared vision between FNB and the nation.
praised
He praised FNB’s investment in sport, particularly golf development, as an investment in ‘futures’ – fostering young talent, boosting local businesses and positioning Eswatini in the regional and global sports tourism market.
Dlamini detailed ETA’s ambitious strategy to attract 2 million tourists by 2027 and contribute E2 billion to the country’s economy from tourism. He stressed that sports tourism, especially niche markets like golf, is crucial for attracting international visitors, driving investment and showcasing Eswatini’s natural beauty. The CEO cited recent positive tourism statistics, with a 15.9 per cent increase in international visitor arrivals year-to-date (January-May 2025), attributing such growth to events like the FNB Eswatini Challenge.
2023 Greek champ set for return
MBABANE – Highly-rated Greek golfer Peter Karmis, is poised to make a highly-anticipated return to the FNB Golf Challenge.
The 44-year-old secured a thrilling one-stroke victory in the 2023 FNB Eswatini Challenge, held at the Nkonyeni Lodge and Golf Estate. His name features prominently on the entry list for this year’s tournament, which will take place at the Ezulwini Golf and Country Club, where he has been registered under the former winners’ category.
history
Karmis, a Greek-South African professional, has competed under the Greek flag since July 2018. Notably, in 2009, he made history by becoming the first player on the Sunshine Tour to record a round of 59.
Meanwhile, it remains unconfirmed whether defending champion Daniel van Tonder will return to defend his title.
The South African professional claimed the 2024 FNB Eswatini Challenge by two strokes, also at the Nkonyeni Lodge and Golf Estate. Van Tonder closed with a final round of 68 to finish 14-under-par overall.
Entries for this year’s challenge include players from as far afield as Portugal, Australia, England and Sweden. The remainder of the field will be confirmed following qualifying rounds.
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