By Nomsa Dlamini (Intern)
LOBAMBA — If you are interested in exploring the Khabane Cave, this is your opportunity, as the event will take place on June 29, 2025.
This transpired on June 13, 2025 during a press conference held by Eswatini National Trust Commission (ENTC) held at the ENTC offices in Lobamba. The ENTC held the press briefing to share key details about the upcoming third annual Khabane Cave Explorer Walk, which will take place at Mlawula Nature Reserve.
Delivering his remarks on behalf of the ENTC Board, ENTC Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Thulani Methula described the Explorer Walk as an important platform, where “culture meets nature.” Methula emphasised the event’s mission to connect the Eswatini public with the country’s historical and ecological treasures, particularly the Khabane Cave, a site of deep cultural significance.
Methula acknowledged the key role played by the Rotary Club of Matsapha, the event’s longstanding partner, in helping sustain and grow the Explorer Walk initiative. “Their unwavering collaboration continues to elevate this initiative beyond a mere walk into a national movement for environmental and cultural pride,” he said.
He also paid tribute to AG Thomas, a lead sponsor for the past two years, whose support has enabled the event to reach a wider audience. All Nations, another partner since the event’s inception, was also recognised for its continuous involvement, along with Lactalis Eswatini, who sponsored last year’s walk.
The ENTC views the Khabane Cave Explorer Walk as more than a tourism attraction. It is a platform for education, cultural preservation, and community mobilisation around pressing conservation issues.
“In reaffirming our commitment to shining a light on Khabane Cave’s significance, we ensure that its story is preserved for generations to come,” Methula said.
He concluded by calling on more corporate sponsors, NGOs, and public institutions to support the event. “Together, we can build a future where nature thrives, history is honoured, and communities stand united in service above self,” he added.
Located within the Mlawula Nature Reserve, Khabane Cave is one of Eswatini’s lesser-known cultural landmarks. It is believed to have served as a spiritual site for early communities and holds archaeological and historical interest.
The 2025 Khabane Cave Explorer Walk is set to take place on Sunday, 29 June 2025, at the Mlawula Nature Reserve. Participants will have the option to arrive a day earlier on Saturday, 28 June 2025, where the site will open for camping and early registration.
