Eswatini boxers in E9m bounty
MBABANE – At least 11 local boxers are positioned to compete for a share of over E9 million in prize money at the forthcoming Mandela African Boxing Cup tournament.
The International Boxing Association (IBA) has allocated a total of US$500 000 (E9 349 775) as prize money for the inaugural tournament, scheduled to take place from April 15-21 at the International Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa. The Eswatini Boxing Association (EBA) will be represented by 11 boxers at the tournament. According to EBA President Webster Lukhele, at least three female boxers form part of the 11-member team, reflecting a diverse representation.
Lukhele emphasised the importance of a national team comprising of individuals from various clubs within the association to facilitate comprehensive development. “We have a boxer from a club in Mhlume, others from OlympAfrica Centre in Lobamba, Zebra Force in Manzini and one from Matsapha. This shows there’s a balance in the selected squad, ultimately giving hope to the boxers in terms of future national team representation,” Lukhele said.
Champion
In another notable development, top pugilist Thabiso Dlamini is not among the 11 selected boxers. EBA Secretary General, Nathi Dlamini, explained that the decision to introduce new talent in the national team was aimed at providing opportunities to passionate and hardworking boxers, such as the newly-appointed national champion, Mitto Larches in the welterweight division.
Meanwhile, the Mandela Cup has attracted 360 boxers from 41 African countries, signifying the widespread appeal across the continent. However, the detailed breakdown of the prize money allocation for the medallists will be disclosed at a later stage.
IBA’s Secretary General and Chief Executive Officer Chris Roberts described the one-week tournament as a significant milestone for boxing in Africa, underlining the role it has in shaping the sport’s development in the continent. He also emphasised the significance of naming the competition after Nelson Mandela, encouraging participating teams to draw inspiration from Mandela’s dedication to boxing and to honour his legacy through the Mandela Cup, positioning it as an annual tradition.
Aleck Sikhosana, head of the Local Organising Committee, affirmed that preparations for the event are advancing at full pace, with the International Convention Centre fully equipped to accommodate thousands of spectators.