Water games to arrest drowning challenges
MBABANE - Eswatini Seals Swim Academy is hosting the kingdom’s first water games aimed at reducing the risks of drowning.
The Eswatini Water Games (ESWAGA) inaugural event will be hosted at Annadale Primary School, Waterford Park in Mbabane, on Saturday at 9am.
About 90 athletes are anticipated to part of the event, representing 12 schools.
The types of water games include kickboard, freestyle, t-shirt races, apple bobbing, treasure hunts and through the noodle.
It is worth noting that these are not conventional games, but they are designed for water safety and drowning prevention to create room for everyone to participate.
Registration is E20 for participating schools, while interested individuals will pay E50 each.
Eswatini Seals Swim Academy Head Coach and ESWAGA Director Sam Oyelakun confirmed the figures.
“ESWAGA serves as a beacon of hope and opportunity for our youth and families, providing a platform for learning, competition and camaraderie.
“By promoting water safety practices and drowning prevention measures, we contribute to the overall well-being and welfare of our community.
“The stated number of athletes is expected to partake,” he said.
Promoting
This event is not just a typical swimming competition; it is a vital initiative promoting water safety and drowning prevention.
ESWAGA aims to address the alarming rates of drowning mortality in Eswatini, as flagged by the World Health Organisation. Stakeholders such as the police and the scuba diving team are expected to join this event.
Other stakeholders include the Red Cross Society, the Ministry of Health, and World Vision as well as sponsors. All participants would receive a commemorative ESWAGA certificate on top of medals for their exceptional display of water safety skills.
For registration purposes, contact Gcebile Gumbi on 7699 3189.