
Caption: MEC Mabuza attending the Umhlanga reed dance
By Lwazi Raul-Shongwe
The Mpumalanga MEC for DCSR(Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation), Leah Mabuza, met with her counterparts from the Department of Sport, Culture and Youth Affairs in the Kingdom of eSwatini during her recent visit to the country.
According to DCSR, the meeting’s primary objective was to explore potential areas of collaboration between the two departments, as well as activities that can foster greater synergy between them, given their shared cultural and linguistic ties.
Furthermore, the meeting reportedly focused on cultural exchange, and incorporating initiatives into the DCSR’s annual plans to facilitate future cooperation.
As part of her visit, MEC Mabuza also attended and supported Mpumalanga maidens at the eSwatini Umhlanga reed dance on behalf of the Mpumalanga provincial government.
“ Key outcomes from the discussions included an agreement to increase Mpumalanga province’s participation in the Umkhosi womhlanga and a commitment to support the Umkhosi wobuganu event. Additionally, both departments expressed a strong interest in reviving the Indoni program and expanding their cooperation to explore further opportunities for collaboration,” said DCSR.
The Kingdom of eSwatini reportedly expressed a vision to establish a cooperative relationship with the SAFA(South African Football Association)body, facilitating the utilisation of Mpumalanga stadiums at a reduced cost through exchange programs.
“The MEC noted that this matter would require intervention from the football regulatory body and may necessitate a meeting with them. The MEC observed that South Africa, as a developing nation, faces numerous opportunities for growth and expansion.
“ She also stressed the need for the Departments of Culture, Sport, and Recreation to remain vibrant and viable, and highlighted the importance of a strong relationship between the two countries, given South Africa’s role as a gateway to eSwatini,” said DCSR.