BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – Across social media platforms, participants flooded timelines with photos, videos and heartfelt messages describing the 2026 Lidwala Wellness Walk as “all fun” and saying the event had “stolen their hearts”, while promising to return next year for another celebration of health, unity and togetherness.
The event brought together over 17 000 emaSwati, including His Royal Highness Prince Mcwasho, Hhohho Regional Administrator Princess Tsandzile, Minister of Health Honourable Mduduzi Matsebula, Deputy Speaker Madala Mhlanga, Mayiwane Inkhundla Member of Parliament Sicelo Dlamini, and other government officials, laced up their shoes and took part in this year’s event, which many described as one of the country’s biggest and most successful wellness gatherings.
Images of smiling walkers, group selfies, finish-line celebrations and words of encouragement dominated social media long after the walk had ended.
Participants said the event was more than just a fitness challenge. They said it created an opportunity for families, friends, work colleagues and communities to come together in support of healthier lifestyles while enjoying a fun-filled day.
The Clinic Group thanked Lidwala Insurance for organising what it described as a well-coordinated event that celebrated health, wellness and community.
“Walking into wellness, one step at a time. Team The Clinic Group showed up in full spirit at the Lidwala Wellness Walk 2026, sharing smiles, conversations and a reminder that taking care of your health starts with small, intentional steps,” the organisation said.
The healthcare provider also thanked everyone who visited its exhibition stand and commended Lidwala Insurance for creating a platform that celebrates health, wellness and community.
Many individuals also shared their experiences online.
Zizie Maphalala said the Lidwala Wellness Walk had “stolen my heart”, while Mbali Dlamini simply described the event as “all fun” and said she was already looking forward to next year’s edition.
First-time participant Musa Dlamini said the event exceeded his expectations and that he would definitely return next year.
Banele Shongwe, who also attended for the first time, said the atmosphere, entertainment and sense of togetherness made the experience unforgettable.
Another first-time walker, Sipho Mabuza, said participating in the event inspired him to embrace a healthier lifestyle and encouraged more emaSwati to take part in future editions.
Zee Sihlongonyane also praised the event, saying: “It was my first time and I really had a great time.”
Lidwala Insurance thanked all participants, fitness instructors, entertainers, sponsors, volunteers and partners for making the event a phenomenal success.
The company said the overwhelming attendance transformed the walk into a powerful movement celebrating health, unity and the importance of living well. It said every step taken reflected a shared commitment to building a healthier and stronger Eswatini.
However, despite the overwhelmingly positive reaction, some participants highlighted areas they believe require attention before next year’s event.
Some registered participants said they were disappointed after failing to receive their official T-shirts and caps following changes to the merchandise collection arrangements.
Others raised concerns that buses transporting participants who could no longer continue with the walk stopped near refreshment points, allowing passengers to collect water, fruit and snacks before many walkers reached those stations.
Participants from southern Lubombo and southern Shiselweni also appealed for additional transport pick-up points, saying the current routes do not adequately cater for people travelling from those areas.
Despite the concerns, the mood across social media remained overwhelmingly positive, with many participants agreeing that the 2026 Lidwala Wellness Walk raised the bar for wellness events in Eswatini and expressing excitement for an even bigger event next year.
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