‘Ingwenyama Cup must embrace technology’

SOCCER-HIS Majesty King Mswati III has called for the Ingwenyama Cup to embrace technological advancements to strengthen the tournament, expand its audience and improve its operations.

The king was speaking during the 2026 Ingwenyama Cup prize presentation at Ezulwini Palazzo International Convention Centre (ICC) on Wednesday evening, where he highlighted the opportunities presented by technology in the continued development of the national competition.

He said the tournament must continue evolving in response to a rapidly changing world, noting that technology offered significant opportunities to improve its reach and overall management.

“We live in a rapidly changing world, and the Ingwenyama Cup must continue evolving.

Technology presents significant opportunities to strengthen the tournament,” the King said.

He identified digital broadcasting, online engagement, electronic ticketing, improved competition management systems, performance analytics and digital archiving of cultural heritage as areas that could be explored.

The proposed technological improvements could help the tournament reach wider audiences while enhancing the experience of supporters who follow the competition.

Digital broadcasting and online engagement, in particular, present opportunities to connect the tournament with audiences beyond the country’s borders. The King noted that television broadcasts and digital streaming platforms had already showcased Emaswati culture and sport to audiences across Africa.

He said technology could also improve transparency, reduce costs and enhance the spectator experience.

Improved competition management systems and performance analytics were among the other areas identified as opportunities to strengthen the tournament’s administration and sporting component.

The King also highlighted the importance of digital archiving in preserving the country’s cultural heritage for future generations.

The tournament brings together football and cultural competitions, creating content and performances that could be preserved through modern digital platforms.

He stressed that adopting new technology should not come at the expense of the country’s identity.

“Our objective should be clear: to remain proudly Liswati in identity while embracing modern tools that support innovative growth and excellence that positions us strongly for the future,” he said.

The King further called for the tournament to continue growing into a stronger, more competitive, sustainable and impactful national event