Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty King Mswati III has called on the nation to take health and fitness seriously, encouraging Emaswati to exercise, lose weight and adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Dressed in a smart suit, the King delivered his keynote address during the glamorous Ingwenyama Cup Prize Presentation Dinner held at Mavuso Trade Centre on Thursday evening.
His Majesty was in his element, mixing humour with heartfelt advice, policy direction and praise for the role sports and culture play in national unity and wellbeing.
With a room full of dignitaries and guests, His Majesty humorously addressed the stigma around weight loss.
“When someone starts losing weight, people quickly say the person is sick or poisoned. Even prophets get involved!” he joked, sending waves of laughter across the hall.
In a playful tone, he urged people to work on their “big tanks,” referring to belly fat, jokingly adding, “I won’t mention names. They know themselves.”
On a more serious note, His Majesty stressed that maintaining a healthy weight through exercise and proper diet was essential for avoiding illness.
The King applauded the Sincephetelo Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (SMVAF) for using the Ingwenyama Cup platform to promote health and fitness through sports.
He also expressed concern over the state of local football, saying the country’s performance on international platforms remained unimpressive.
“This must change,” he said. “We have world-class stadiums across the country, let’s put them to full use.” He encouraged coaches and players to step up their training efforts.
Turning to the creative sector, His Majesty mentioned the state-of-the-art stage currently under construction at the ICC in Ezulwini, urging artists to match its high standard with quality performances.
Reflecting on sport’s power to unite, he spoke of how football helped bring opposing forces together during World War II, fostering peace and humanity.
“A ball can do what weapons cannot, it unites,” he said.
On a policy front, the King announced his push to review and increase the E1 million benefit limit for road crash victims.
“Life is more important than money,” he declared.
He confirmed that Parliament was processing a new Bill to align benefits with rising medical costs.
He urged SMVAF to accelerate consultations and ensure victims get the support they need, saying the nation must continue to uphold dignity and compassion in the face of adversity.
The event closed in celebration with sports champions, cultural groups and stakeholders honoured for their contribution to the success of the Ingwenyama Cup 2025.
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