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EFA AND FIFA LAUNCHES THE FIFA LEAGUE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME TO STRENGTHEN WOMEN’S FOOTBALL

On March 27th, the Eswatini Football Association (EFA) officially launched the FIFA League Development Programme, marking a significant milestone for women’s football in the country. This initiative shifts the focus toward structured grassroots development, ensuring young girls are introduced to the sport early and provided with a clear pathway for progression.

A Structured Pathway for Growth

The programme features two key divisions designed to create a competitive and progressive environment:

  • Under-15 Category: Comprising 10 primary schools.
  • Under-19 Category: Featuring 12 high schools.

To further bolster the initiative, the EFA has secured a partnership with PC Systems. The sponsorship agreement, worth E51,000 per annum for the next two years, specifically supports the Under-19 competition. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to investing in the future of Eswatini’s female athletes.

Bridging the Gap

Speaking at the launch, EFA President Mr. Peter Simelane described the initiative as a direct response to FIFA’s mandate to strengthen women’s football nationwide. He noted that Eswatini currently only has one established league—the Senior Women’s League—and emphasized that this new programme is critical to bridging the gap between youth and elite play.

“The introduction of structured school competitions will allow scouts to identify and nurture emerging talent, creating a vital feeder system for the senior league,” Simelane stated. He also expressed deep gratitude to PC Systems, noting, “Player development at the grassroots level is the foundation for the future of women’s football in our country.”

Global Support and National Impact

The programme is expected to expand the national talent pool, feeding talent directly into the junior national teams, and ultimately graduating to the Senior Women’s National Team (Sitsebe SaMhlekazi).

Representing FIFA, Ms. Doreen Nabwire Omondi commended the EFA’s efforts and urged other stakeholders to join the movement. “FIFA acknowledges the EFA’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for the girl child to express herself through football,” Omondi said. She reaffirmed FIFA’s ongoing support and shared their optimism that the programme will deliver long-term success.

As the competitions get underway, the EFA and FIFA wish all participating players success in this new chapter for Eswatini football.