NEWS
DARTS - ESWATINI Royal Insurance Corporation (ESRIC) has reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with the Eswatini National Darts Association (ENDA), a collaboration that has spanned 15 years.
During the ESRIC E150 000 Darts League Prize Presentation held at Sibane Sami Hotel yesterday, ESRIC General Manager Zama Ngcobo announced the company's continued support for darts in Eswatini. The event was organised to honour winners from the previous season. Last year, ESRIC contributed E150 000 towards the elite league, and Ngcobo pledged that the company would renew its sponsorship next year.
However, he did not disclose the exact amount during his remarks. "When we first started sponsoring darts, it was often associated with negative habits such as drinking and smoking. I am happy to see how the image and standards of the sport have evolved over the years.
"On behalf of ESRIC, I would like to confirm that we will continue supporting darts as a company. "Moving forward, we plan to split the sponsorship, ensuring dedicated support for youth development alongside the senior league," he said. Ngcobo also praised Eswatini and ENDA for successfully hosting the Region V Games last year, emphasising that such an achievement reflects the country's growth.
Meanwhile, ENDA President Phumlani 'Kofi' Ndwandwe expressed gratitude for ESRIC's unwavering support, pledging that the association would continue working to elevate the sport and uphold the sponsor's brand through exemplary conduct.
Commended
Eswatini Sport and Recreation Council (ESRC) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Darius Dlomo also commended ENDA for maintaining a strong and lasting relationship with its sponsor.
ENDA President Phumlani 'Kofi' Ndwandwe."Marriages and relationships that last beyond five years and extend past a decade are truly admirable. This partnership between ESRIC and ENDA, now approaching its 15th year, is a testament to their shared vision. I congratulate ENDA and its president for meeting the expectations of their sponsor, and I hope this relationship continues to thrive," he said. Dlomo further praised ESRIC and ENDA for their commitment to sports development, particularly their efforts in schools' development initiatives, which have already yielded success with athletes bringing home medals. He emphasised that darts has a promising future in Eswatini.