…highway marathon targets E150 000 for education support…
… organisers aim for 500 runners on december 5…
… three-year vision targets growth beyond mankayane by 2028…
…public urged to register, participate and support the cause…
BY NELIWE NGUBANE
MANKAYANE — The Highway Education Foundation has set its sights on a bigger and more impactful Highway Half Marathon, targeting E150,000 for education support and 500 runners for the December race.
Speaking at the official launch of the Highway Half Marathon 2026, held at Highway Covenant Tabernacle Church in Mankayane on Thursday, Foundation Board Chairperson Frieze Oswatch unveiled the organisation’s three-year vision under the theme “The Winning Year.”
Oswatch said the foundation aims to raise E150,000 during the 2026/27 financial year, with the money expected to assist children with school fees, uniforms and school shoes.
“This year we have set ourselves two. The first is money. We want to raise one hundred and fifty thousand Emalangeni,” Oswatch said.
He said the second target was to have 500 runners on the starting line on December 5, 2026, calling on residents, businesses and supporters to take ownership of the marathon.
According to Oswatch, the marathon is not only about running, but about creating opportunities for children who might otherwise be unable to remain in school.
He said the foundation’s vision extends beyond the 2026 race, with plans to establish the marathon as an annual event that Mankayane can depend on.
In 2027, the foundation hopes to attract participants from across Eswatini, while by 2028, it aims to extend its educational support beyond Mankayane to children in other communities.
Oswatch also recognised the sponsors, partners and individuals who have supported the marathon from its early stages, including ST Psychology Services, The Yellow Pharmacy, JI Funeral Services, Happy Planets, Mankayane Town Board and Montigny.
He particularly welcomed Montigny as a new partner, saying the company’s involvement demonstrated growing confidence in the marathon and its educational mission.
The Chairperson also praised guest of honour Sipho Makhabane, who attended the launch on his birthday, describing his decision to spend the day supporting education as a reflection of his commitment to giving back.
With registration officially open, Oswatch urged people to register immediately, encourage friends and family to participate, support local businesses and contribute towards the E150,000 target.
He said donations can be made through MoMo Pay: 78712042.
As the December 5 race approaches, the foundation hopes its “Winning Year” will translate into more than medals and finish-line celebrations — but into classrooms filled with children whose education has been given a second chance.
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