BY THOBILE NDLANGAMANDLA (INTERN)
MANZINI – Athletics Eswatini commemorated international Women’s Day ith a visit to St Michael’s Girls High School on March 8, 2026, where learners participated in an inspiring and interactive programme aimed at empowering young girls through sport, education and life guidance.
The initiative was organised through the federation’s Gender and Equality Committee together with the EswatiniAthletics Program , which focuses on introducing athletics to young learners while promoting important social values and life skills.
During the event, learners had the opportunity to listen to motivational messages from several guest speakers, including former Eswatini sprinter Sibusiso Matsenjwa half-marathon runner Thobile Ngwenyama, Luvuyo Dlamini and Dr Mulume from His Majesty’s Correctional Service.
Speaking during the programme, the Athletics Eswatini Gender and Equity Chairperson, Nqobile Zwane, highlighted that the theme for this year’s commemoration was #NiselaImbali, which encourages girls to write their own stories and shape their futures.
Zwane encouraged more young females to participate in sports, particularly athletics, saying sport can open many opportunities for girls. She emphasised that through dedication and hard work in sport, young people can achieve their dreams and build successful futures.
“We want to see more female runners joining athletics. Sport is not only about competition, but it also helps young people to develop confidence, discipline and self-belief,” she said.
She further urged the pupils to believe in themselves and trust who they are, adding that confidence plays a key role in helping young women overcome challenges and pursue their ambitions.
The speakers also encouraged learners to remain focused on their education, make responsible life choices and take advantage of opportunities available in sport. They shared their personal experiences, highlighting the importance of discipline, determination and maintaining a healthy lifestyle in order to achieve success both on and off the track.
In addition to the motivational talks, Kids Athletics coaches conducted practical sessions that allowed learners to actively participate in fun athletics activities. The learners engaged in team-building games and basic athletics exercises designed to promote teamwork, physical fitness and confidence among young girls.
The programme also addressed critical social issues affecting young women, including safeguarding, equal opportunities in sport and raising awareness on the prevention of violence against women and girls.
Organisers emphasised that sport can serve as a powerful tool to empower girls by helping them build confidence, develop leadership skills and thrive in safe and supportive environments.
According to Athletics Eswatini, initiatives such as these play a vital role in encouraging more girls to participate in athletics while also promoting gender equality in sport.
The organisation also extended its appreciation to the leadership, teachers and learners of St Michael’s Girls High School for warmly hosting the event and actively participating in the programme.
Athletics Eswatini further thanked its executive committee, the Kids Athletics Committee and members of the media for their support in making the commemoration a success.
#InternationalWomensDay #WomenInSport #AthleticsEswatini #StMichaelsGirlsHighSchool
