By Tlalane Dlamini
The Kings Cup, a premier golf tournament in Eswatini, was officially launched this morning with a significant increase in prize money. This move is a direct response to a mandate from His Majesty King Mswati III (Patron) to elevate the event.
The announcement, made at the Hilton Hotel, signifies a new era for golf in the country, attracting major corporate support and aligning with national development goals. The prize for first place has jumped from E166,000 to E240,000, underscoring the growing prominence of the tournament. The 2024 Kings Cup will take place from September 10 to 14, with a gala dinner scheduled for September 12.
Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, opened the event by highlighting the tournament’s evolution. “The Kings Cup, which started small, has grown into a major event, attracting more sponsors and increasing visibility for Eswatini on the international stage,” she stated.
The Minister emphasized how the tournament aligns with His Majesty’s 2024 mandate to “increase employment through sports.” She noted that the creation of a local golf academy is a key initiative to achieve this goal, providing a platform for local children to train at home rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
Chairman of the Kings Cup, Sam ‘Styles’ Richards, shared a powerful anecdote about Mongi Maseko, a young golfer who, with guidance, went on to win the Swazi Open and Mbabane tournaments. Richards cited this as an example of the nation’s untapped potential. “We should have our own Tiger Woods in the country; we must assemble a golf academy,” he urged, stressing the need for a national training institution to foster local talent.
This vision was echoed by the event’s sponsors, who view their support as a strategic investment.
Ncamiso T. Ntshalintshali, CEO of the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), affirmed his organization’s commitment. “The King’s Cup is a testament to the Patron’s vision for golf, and we want to be associated with it as sponsors. The resources can never be enough,” he noted, adding that “we are committing as sponsors so that we will see the future lighting up for Golfers in Eswatini.”
Leonard Ndzimandze, representing Ubombo Sugar Limited, a key sponsor and owner of a golf course, expressed long-term pride in their partnership. “We understand how expensive the sport is and are proud to contribute,” he said.
Ndzimandze revealed that Ubombo is currently upgrading its golf facilities to an international standard with the hope of one day hosting the King’s Cup. He underscored the strategic importance of golf in the business world, stating, “A lot of things happen on the course. Some executives delay making decisions and end by saying, ‘Let’s discuss at the golf course.
James Nkambule, representing Eswatini Railway, stated that the company’s support for the King’s Cup is a “strategic investment in the future of Eswatini.” He explained that their vision extends beyond the single event, aiming to foster a sustainable pipeline of local talent. “We are not just a transport company; we are an integral part of the kingdom’s social and economic fabric,” he said, emphasizing the company’s commitment to seeing the tournament grow and inspire all EmaSwati.