LOBAMBA – Eswatini Football Association (EFA) President Peter ‘Samora’ Simelane has delivered a timely boost to women’s football, unveiling plans aimed at strengthening the senior women’s league structure.
Simelane was speaking during the official launch of the FIFA EFA/PC Systems Women’s Development League, an initiative designed to create a sustainable pathway from grassroots to the elite level. The ceremony was held at the Somhlolo National stadium yesterday.
The event drew key figures in the global and local game, including FIFA Women’s Football Lead in Africa Doreen Nabwire, alongside Tsholofelo Sethoko and David Fani. EFA CEO Frederick Mngomezulu, Executive Committee member Phumzile Dlamini, and PC Systems Director Mandla Zulu were also in attendance.
Simelane emphasised the long-term impact of the development leagues, noting they would serve as a vital feeder system into the senior women’s league.
“The development leagues will serve as a feeder for the senior women’s league,” he said. “This will make it possible to introduce promotion and relegation in future, while also strengthening the national team through scouting opportunities.”
Corporate backing remains central to the initiative, with PC Systems renewing their partnership with an E 51 000 sponsorship. The agreement is set to run until 2027.
In a significant expansion, the programme has moved beyond its initial under-19 structure to include under-15 divisions for both high schools and primary schools, widening the talent pool at the grassroots level. The initiative aligns with FIFA’s Women’s Football Strategy, which supports all 211 member associations with funding, technical expertise and access to development resources across 13 key areas.
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