BY MFANUFIKILE KHATHWANE
MBABANE – More than a walk, Sibebe Survivor Challenge is changing lives, with over E1 million raised last year helping thousands of vulnerable people in communities through projects that restore dignity and bring hope.
Nedbank Eswatini Managing Director Fikile Nkosi said the Sibebe Survivor Walk, organised by the Rotary Club of Mbabane-Mbuluzi, was not just a hiking or exercise event, but a platform that brings hope and changes lives.
The MD said this during an interview after the 2026 Sibebe Survivor Challenge, held on Sunday, July 26, 2026. The event marked the 21st edition of the challenge, which has grown into a major fundraising initiative supporting community projects.
She said the funds raised through the event were used to restore dignity among less privileged communities by supporting people in need.
“Last year, close to E1 million was collected from this event, and the impact has been remarkable. Some of the funds were used to pay school fees for 400 learners, provide dignity packs for mothers who give birth at hospitals and cannot afford them, build soup kitchens in rural schools, construct footbridges and support clean water projects in rural areas,” said Nkosi.
She thanked companies that continue to support the initiative, saying their participation not only contributes financially but also encourages employees to take part in the walk.
Nkosi said the funds are managed and utilised by the Rotary Club of Mbabane-Mbuluzi, which executes community projects to ensure that the money benefits those who need it most.
She said the Sibebe Survivor Challenge also contributes to promoting tourism in Eswatini, as it attracts participants from outside the country who come to experience the beauty of Sibebe and take part in the challenge.
Nkosi added that the event promotes healthy lifestyles by encouraging people to participate in physical activity, which contributes to improved fitness and overall wellbeing.
She also announced that registration for future Sibebe Survivor Challenges will move to a digital platform to make it easier for participants, especially those coming from outside the country, to register and pay online.
“We have noticed that we have participants who come from outside Eswatini, and having an online registration system will make the process easier and more convenient for everyone,” she said.
Nkosi further thanked the Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC) for allowing the event to take place at Sibebe, a protected heritage area, saying the location adds value to the experience while promoting the country’s natural heritage.
Sibebe Committee member Nokwanda Gwebu delivered a word of thanks, appreciating participants, sponsors and partners who continue to support the annual challenge.
The Sibebe Survivor Challenge walk continues to stand as a symbol of community support, bringing together people from Eswatini and beyond to promote wellness, showcase the country’s natural heritage and raise funds that create lasting change for vulnerable communities.
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