The Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Eswatini celebrated International Youth Day on 12 August 2023 with more than 200 youngsters in the rural community of KaLuhleko area, in the Manzini region.
During this event, the EU donated football kits to eight male and female youth teams under the Usuthu Development League who later showcased their skills on the football pitch. For many in the community, it was the first time for them to witness girls playing football.
The event aimed to promote youth participation and engagement in line with the EU Youth Action Plan, through the unity and cooperation that football fosters. Sports has the power to bring young people together and teaches important soft skills and team work, thus resonating deeply with the European Year of Skills 2023 and the EU’s seven-year programme in Eswatini, which focuses on youth skills and empowerment.