By 
by Ncaba Ntshakala
Inyatsi Foundation was unveiled on Friday as the title sponsor of the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Competitions. Inyatsi asserted that this partnership aligns with His Majesty’s vision of transforming Eswatini into a first-world nation, a goal that the Inyatsi Group Holdings is keen to support through its corporate social initiatives.
The sponsorship, whose exact amount remains undisclosed, was hailed as a collaborative effort between the Inyatsi Foundation and the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Association to empower emaSwati through artistic and cultural avenues.
The launch event was held at Inyatsi House in Manzini and was attended by various dignitaries, including association officials, headteachers, Eswatini Arts and Culture CEO Stanley Dlamini, and the Ministry of Education’s Under Secretary Lungelo Nhlengetfwa.
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Inyatsi Group Holdings was represented by Head of Corporate, Gcinekile Nxumalo, who expressed the foundation’s commitment to His Majesty’s vision and the nation’s progress.
His Majesty’s vision of Eswatini attaining first-world status is a guiding light for our nation,” Nxumalo said. She highlighted the foundation’s dedication to excellence in education, arts, and culture, emphasizing Inyatsi’s core values which are Agility, Accountability, Commitment, Teamwork, and Embracing Change.
“Our foundation is dedicated to fostering growth and development within our community,” Nxumalo continued. “Today, we take a significant step forward by becoming the Title Sponsor of the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Competitions.
These competitions are not just a platform for showcasing talent; they are a celebration of our rich heritage and a beacon for the future.”
Nxumalo expressed that the foundation’s support extends beyond financial contributions. “We are deeply invested in the success of this initiative and the positive impact it will have on our students and community.
Our partnership with the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Association is a testament to our belief in the transformative power of the arts,” she stated, inviting potential sponsors to join this initiative and contribute to nurturing young talents.
Under Secretary Lungelo Nhlengetfwa applauded Inyatsi Group Holdings for their generous investment, describing it as a vital opportunity for young people to engage in arts and cultural activities.
“This sponsorship is not just financial support; it is affording young people a chance to participate in arts and cultural activities,” Nhlengetfwa noted, highlighting the positive collaboration between the private sector and the government.
Nhlengetfwa emphasized the government’s vision of transforming education in the country, which includes empowering learners through arts and culture. “Siyabonga kakhulu Inyatsi kuvela ibambise hulumende,” he said, acknowledging the crucial support from Inyatsi which he said is a collaboration of the company and government.
Eswatini Arts and Culture Council CEO Stanley Dlamini also praised the partnership, describing it as a much-needed collaboration for the country and its schools. Dlamini outlined the council’s ongoing efforts to educate learners about preserving their culture and commercializing art.
“We are currently touring schools, educating learners about preserving their culture and commercializing art,” he said. Dlamini highlighted the council’s global initiatives, showcasing Eswatini’s culture at international festivals in countries such as India and Dubai.
The Association’s President Nimrod Gamedze also lauded the partnerships and said this sponsorship will impact their learners positively. He said that they are working tirelessly to empower learners to embrace their culture and arts.
Inyatsi’s Sponsorship a global investment, says Stanley
Eswatini Arts and Culture Council CEO Stanley Dlamini emphasized that Inyatsi Group Holdings’ sponsorship of the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture Competitions is more than just local support but it’s a global investment.
Speaking at the sponsorship launch, Dlamini highlighted that Inyatsi is investing in showcasing Eswatini’s homegrown art to the world. “Inyatsi is not only investing in the country but investing globally as the art that is home-brewed in Eswatini is then exported for the world to see,” he said.
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Dlamini noted that Inyatsi, as a local and international operator, has committed to promoting Eswatini’s cultural heritage on a global stage.
He encouraged other companies to follow Inyatsi’s example and support the arts and culture sector. “By investing in our arts and culture, businesses are contributing to a global showcase of Eswatini’s rich heritage and creativity,” Dlamini added.
Siyatibongela ku Inyatsi kusetfwala – Principals
During the launch of the Inyatsi Foundation’s sponsorship to the Eswatini Schools Arts and Culture competitions, headteachers expressed their gratitude for the generous support.
The headteachers praised the conglomerate for its pledge, stating that the competitions has long struggled with a lack of resources. With this new sponsorship, they asserted that schools will now be able to compete without constraints,
which is said to mark a significant improvement in the ability for their learners to participate fully and showcase their talents.
