(At Parliament)
LOBAMBA – The government has reaffirmed its commitment to upgrading the Somhlolo National Stadium to meet international standards.
This was evidenced by the 2026/27 budget estimates presented by the Minister for Finance, Neal Rijkenberg, yesterday. Within the E36.92 billion national budget, the Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs has been allocated E153 654 398, representing a slight increase from the previous fiscal year. A significant portion of this funding, specifically E42 million, is earmarked for the Somhlolo National Stadium. This investment is crucial for meeting the stringent requirements set by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). Despite an allocation of E32 million in the previous year, subsequent CAF inspections identified further necessary refurbishments.
Key priority areas include the ongoing expansion of dressing rooms previously flagged for limited space, the installation of bucket seats in the area known as the no man’s land and an upgrade to the stadium’s floodlighting system to enable the hosting of night games.
Other requirements identified by CAF include improved spectator facilities for persons with disabilities, a dedicated press conference room, medical stations for fans and better circulation areas.
Minister for Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Bongani Nzima explained that while the ministry had initially requested E67 million for a full overhaul in the previous financial year, they were allocated E32 million.
He noted that these funds were prioritised to secure a provisional hosting permit, which was granted in August last year.
“We are now tackling the major issues, and construction is already ongoing,” Nzima stated, expressing his gratitude to government for the overall sports budget allocation.
Another major beneficiary is the Eswatini Sport and Recreation Council (ESRC), whose allocation has jumped from E19.4 million to E30.5 million, an increase of over E11 million. Minister Nzima stated that this increment is intended to professionalise the sports industry, particularly following the successful passage of the Sport Bill through Parliament.
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