BY THEMBA ZWANE
LOBAMBA – The successful hosting of the Imbube Marathon has inspired Athletics Eswatini to intensify its efforts to develop athletics, promote road running and build a healthier nation, with the event demonstrating the power of sport to unite the country.
Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini has congratulated the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), sponsors, athletes, technical officials, volunteers and the nation at large for the successful hosting of the marathon, describing the event as a demonstration of what can be achieved when the country unites behind sport.
In an official comment following the event, Dlamini said the athletics governing body was encouraged by the overwhelming support the marathon received from across the country.
He highlighted the presence of Their Majesties and other members of the Royal Family, the Right Honourable Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers, saying their attendance had added prestige to the event and demonstrated national leadership’s commitment to sport, health and unity.
“We were deeply humbled and honoured by the presence of Royalty, the Right Honourable Prime Minister and Cabinet Ministers who graced this historic event,” Dlamini said.
He added that the support would motivate Athletics Eswatini to work even harder to develop the sport and encourage more people to embrace road running as part of efforts to promote a healthy nation.
The success of the Imbube Marathon also highlighted the importance of collaboration among sporting bodies, government, sponsors and other stakeholders in delivering major sporting events.
Dlamini extended his appreciation to the race organising committee, security services, medical teams and all stakeholders who worked behind the scenes to ensure that the event was safe, well organised and memorable.
He also recognised the contribution of athletes, technical officials and volunteers, whose participation and commitment helped make the marathon a success.
“The Imbube Marathon has once again proven that when the nation unites behind sport, Eswatini shines,” he said.
For Athletics Eswatini, the event represents an opportunity to build on the momentum generated by the marathon and continue strengthening athletics in the country. The organisation has expressed its determination to use the success as inspiration for even greater events in the future.
The marathon’s significance extends beyond competition, with road running providing an opportunity to promote physical activity, encourage healthy lifestyles and bring people together through a shared sporting experience.
Dlamini’s message placed particular emphasis on the collective effort behind the event, recognising that successful sporting occasions depend not only on athletes but also on the institutions, professionals, volunteers and communities that support them.
As the country reflects on the successful hosting of the Imbube Marathon, Athletics Eswatini has reaffirmed its commitment to developing the sport and promoting national participation under the banner of #TogetherForGold.
The message from the athletics leadership is clear: the success of the Imbube Marathon should serve as a foundation for continued investment in athletics, stronger collaboration among stakeholders and a healthier, more united Eswatini.
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