MBABANE UPGRADES CORONATION PARK SPORTS COURTS

By Tlalane Dlamini

The Municipal Council of Mbabane has upgraded the multi-purpose sports courts at Coronation Park, strengthening the capital city’s recreational offering ahead of Mbabane Day 2026.

The renovated facilities are expected to create improved opportunities for residents, sporting associations and visitors to participate in sport and outdoor recreation, adding to Coronation Park’s appeal as a public leisure destination.

The courts have been fitted with modern surfaces and enhanced safety features, while the lighting system has been upgraded to energy-efficient LED technology. The facilities accommodate basketball, netball, volleyball and tennis, with sporting associations already using the courts for league matches and tournaments.

The improvements will also feature during Mbabane Day 2026, scheduled for Saturday, 31 October, at Coronation Park. Held under the theme “Our City. One Community. One Day,” the celebration will bring together residents and visitors for activities highlighting the city’s sporting talent, cultural diversity, entrepreneurship and community spirit.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Municipal Council of Mbabane, Gciniwe Fakudze, said the investment reflects the importance of public recreational spaces in promoting community wellbeing and social inclusion.

“Accessible and well-maintained recreational facilities provide opportunities for people of different ages and backgrounds to participate in physical activity, interact and build stronger community connections,” she said.

Coronation Park remains one of Mbabane’s key public recreation spaces, attracting an average of more than 300 people daily. Beyond the outdoor sports courts, the park offers a skate park, swimming pool and squash courts, providing a range of activities for sports enthusiasts and families.

The court renovations form part of the Council’s broader efforts to encourage active lifestyles and expand access to sporting opportunities. During the 2025/2026 reporting period, the Council supported programmes including the Age in Motion League Games, the Oval Keeps Fit Programme and the Kids’ Athletics Programme.

The annual Mbabane Marathon attracted more than 2 400 participants across its marathon and boot camp activities, while the Olympic Day Run in June 2025 brought together 600 athletes from 10 primary schools in Mbabane.

Further improvements at Coronation Park are planned for 2027 under Phase Two of the project, which will involve upgrading the remaining court to accommodate additional sporting codes.

For visitors exploring Mbabane, the upgraded courts add to the recreational options available at Coronation Park. The upcoming Mbabane Day celebrations will provide an opportunity to experience the facilities while engaging with the capital’s sporting, cultural and community activities.