BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MLAWULA – Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe has called on Emaswati to become steadfast guardians of the Kingdom’s natural heritage, as more than 400 participants gathered at Mlawula Nature Reserve for the fourth edition of the Khabane Cave Walk, a flagship eco-tourism and conservation experience.
Held on Sunday, 28 June 2026 under the theme “Our Earth, Our Future,” the annual event once again transformed Mlawula into a vibrant hub of adventure, uniting hikers, families, conservationists, tourism stakeholders and outdoor enthusiasts in a shared celebration of Eswatini’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity.
The event was officially commissioned by the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who wished participants a safe and enjoyable experience while urging them to take pride in protecting Eswatini’s rich natural heritage. She encouraged everyone to embrace environmental conservation and ensure that the country’s natural treasures continue to benefit future generations while supporting the growth of sustainable tourism.
Her Royal Highness Princess Sakhizwe, serving as Brand Ambassador for the Khabane Cave Walk, delivered a compelling keynote address that placed nature, unity and responsibility at the heart of her message. She described the environment as a living bridge that connects generations and strengthens national identity.
“Nature has a unique way of bringing people together. It connects our past with our future, inspires peace, and reminds us of our shared responsibility to protect the beautiful environment we have been blessed with. Every step we take today should be a commitment to preserving our natural heritage for generations to come,” she said.
She applauded both first-time and seasoned hikers for their determination and resilience, noting that their participation reflects a growing national consciousness around environmental protection and healthy outdoor lifestyles.
Participants embarked on a challenging yet scenic 12-kilometre trail through Mlawula Nature Reserve, traversing diverse ecosystems, indigenous forests and rolling landscapes before reaching the historic Khabane Cave. The journey offered not only physical challenge but also an immersive experience into one of Eswatini’s most treasured natural environments.
Upon completion, walkers were awarded commemorative medals in recognition of their endurance, achievement and commitment, marking another successful milestone for one of the Kingdom’s most rapidly growing outdoor events.
Beyond the trail, the atmosphere shifted into a lively community celebration, with participants of all ages engaging in sack races, egg races, tug-of-war and other recreational activities that promoted teamwork, laughter and unity.
Her Royal Highness joined participants in several of the games, demonstrating her strong commitment to promoting active lifestyles, inclusive tourism and community engagement. Her presence added a vibrant royal touch to the festivities, inspiring many—especially young participants—to embrace conservation with enthusiasm.
A key highlight of this year’s event was the announcement of plans to establish an on-site museum at Mlawula Nature Reserve, aimed at preserving the area’s archaeological and historical significance. The initiative is expected to enhance heritage conservation while strengthening the reserve’s position as a leading educational and tourism destination in Eswatini.
Organisers described the Khabane Cave Walk as more than an outdoor challenge, noting its growing role in promoting environmental awareness, national unity and sustainable tourism development. They emphasized that the event continues to position Eswatini as a rising eco-tourism destination in the region.
The fourth edition was made possible through collaboration between the national heritage board, the Rotary Club of Matsapha, and corporate partners including Eswatini Sugar, Ubombo Sugar and Logico, whose continued support has been instrumental in the event’s success.
As participants departed Mlawula Nature Reserve with medals around their necks and memories of an unforgettable adventure, Her Royal Highness delivered a final message of reflection and responsibility.
“Let us continue to celebrate our heritage, protect our environment, and work together to ensure that Eswatini remains a country where nature thrives and future generations can proudly enjoy the treasures we have today,” she said.
The 2026 Khabane Cave Walk concluded as a powerful reminder that when conservation, community and culture come together, Eswatini’s natural heritage becomes not only preserved—but proudly celebrated.
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