A total of 120 professional golfers from across the globe are set to tee off at the 4th edition of the FNB Eswatini Challenge at Ezulwini Golf and Country Club today, all fighting for a chance to win a share of E2 million in prize money. The champion will also walk away with a symbolic Masters-style green jacket, designed by Mzameni Mpanza of Sgonian Republik.
The fourth edition of the FNB Eswatini Challenge officially teed off today at the Ezulwini Golf and Country Club, drawing 120 professional golfers from across the globe who are competing for a share of the E2 million prize pool.
The Challenge, implemented under the Sunshine Tour, has attracted players from as far afield as Greece, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the United States, and South Korea. The championship runs until Saturday, when the 2025 winner will be crowned, joining an elite list of past champions including Daniel van Tonder, Peter Karmis, and Jaco Prinsloo.
While van Tonder will not be defending his title this year, both Karmis and Prinsloo are back and are expected to provide stiff competition on the lush fairways and greens of Ezulwini’s scenic course.
This year marks a significant shift for the tournament, with the Challenge moving from its previous home at Nkonyeni Golf Estate to the centrally located Ezulwini Golf and Country Club. The new venue has made the event more accessible to local fans, and organizers are encouraging emaSwati to attend in large numbers.
“Our new, centralized location means the Challenge is now even more accessible for emaSwati,” said FNB Eswatini Chief Marketing Officer, Sibusile Sigwane. “Even those working on Thursday and Friday can take their lunch to come down and have a feel of the action. I encourage all golf lovers to come through and enjoy what should be a special and epic three days of golf.”
As a gesture of community engagement, entry to the tournament is free for all spectators.
The week’s activities began with the FNB Client Pro-Am held on Tuesday and Wednesday, where dignitaries and corporate leaders had the opportunity to play alongside professional golfers.
Notable participants included former Prime Minister Cleopas Dlamini, MTN Eswatini CEO Wandile Mtshali, and Old Mutual Eswatini CEO Muzi Bell, among others.
Local golfer Fisiwe Vilane participated in the Pro-Am and applauded FNB Eswatini for creating an inclusive platform that supports the development of women in golf.
“We really appreciate FNB’s intentionality in inviting women to be part of this tournament. Golf has predominantly been a men’s sport, but FNB has played a pivotal role in changing that,” she said. “It was exciting to play alongside many women, including some participating for the first time.”
Speaking at the Pro-Am Day 2 Prize Presentation Ceremony, FNB Eswatini Chief Executive Officer Thokozani ‘TK’ Dlamini expressed gratitude to all partners who made this year’s Challenge possible.
“This spirit of partnership that has underscored the Challenge is a reminder of the endless possibilities awaiting us if we work together,” said Dlamini. “As FNB Eswatini, we look forward to working collaboratively with you beyond this year’s Challenge for the good of our people and the country at large. As we celebrate 30 years in Eswatini, we continue to say, ‘Sitintile Eswatini futsi asiyindzawo’.”
In a unique addition to this year’s tournament, the eventual champion will also be awarded a symbolic Masters-style green jacket, designed by renowned local fashion designer Mzameni Mpanza of Sgonian Republik.
“We do not doubt that this symbolic jacket will become an icon and epitome of the FNB Eswatini Challenge for years to come,” Dlamini said.
With tee-offs starting daily at 6 a.m. on Thursday and Friday, and the final round set for Saturday, anticipation is running high as local and international spectators prepare to witness another thrilling chapter in the FNB Eswatini Challenge.