MBABANE – The regional phase of the Ingwenyama Cup culture competitions officially commenced on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the King Sobhuza II Memorial Stadium in Shiselweni.
The event marked the start of a month-long regional circuit aimed at selecting finalists for the national championships.
Organised by the Ingwenyama Cup Culture Committee, the Shiselweni regional event featured several traditional categories.
These included Sibhaca, Ummiso, Lutsango, Emajaha and Imbongi. The Buseleni cultural groups proved to be the best of the day, scoping first positions in a number of categories.
This year’s edition introduced a technical adjustment to the competition format, where the Imbali regiment, previously competing in the Ingadla category, has been transitioned into the Ummiso category.
The Culture Committee, led by Public Relations Officer Sandile ‘Msandi KaBaba’ Nxumalo, recently confirmed a revised prize structure for the 2025/26 season.
At the regional level, rewards are allocated to the top four finishers in each category.
All first-place regional winners receive a cash prize of E1 000 and secure automatic qualification for the national finals.
Following the Shiselweni opener, the regional tour continued to the Lubombo region next to the Siteki Bus Rank.
The Hhohho regional competitions are scheduled for March 21 at Buhleni Stadium, concluding with the Manzini region on March 22 at the Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre.
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