BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
LOBAMBA– His Majesty King Mswati III has commended the inclusive spirit of the Imbube Marathon, with particular emphasis on the 3.3km family fun run, which provides an opportunity for families, elderly people and persons with disabilities to participate free of charge.
Representing the King at the eighth edition of the marathon, Prince Mgucisi highlighted the importance of creating sporting opportunities that accommodate people from different backgrounds and abilities.
He also commended the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF) for its continued involvement in the event, which has grown into a major national gathering attracting thousands of participants.
“One of the most encouraging features of this marathon is its commitment to inclusivity,” Prince Mgucisi said.
He noted that the continued growth of the family fun run demonstrated the event’s commitment to ensuring that sport was accessible beyond professional and competitive athletes.
The 3.3km category welcomes families, elderly participants and persons with disabilities, allowing them to take part in the event without paying an entry fee.
Prince Mgucisi said the initiative reflected the values of humanity and care that the country sought to strengthen within society.
He explained that providing opportunities for people of different ages and abilities enabled them to improve their well-being and celebrate achievements together.
The inclusive category was part of a wider programme that featured the 42.2km marathon, 21.1km half-marathon and 10km race.
This year’s event attracted close to 8,300 participants, up from approximately 6,000 recorded in 2025 and 2,762 runners when the marathon was first held in 2016.
The growth reflects the increasing appeal of the event and its ability to bring together local and international participants.
Beyond encouraging physical activity, the marathon has also become a platform for promoting tourism and strengthening Eswatini’s international profile.
Prince Mgucisi welcomed athletes who had travelled from various countries, including South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Lesotho, the United States, the Philippines and Taiwan.
He encouraged them to use their visit to explore the country’s tourism attractions and experience its culture and hospitality.
The marathon has also attained significant milestones in competitive athletics. In 2023, it became a Comrades Marathon qualifier and has since received certification as a Two Oceans Marathon qualifier.
These achievements have enhanced its standing among long-distance runners and increased its potential to attract participants from beyond Eswatini.
The King’s message, delivered through Prince Mgucisi, placed emphasis on the importance of maintaining an event that serves both competitive athletes and the wider community.
By keeping the family fun run free and accessible, the Imbube Marathon continues to provide a platform where participation, physical well-being and social inclusion are celebrated alongside sporting excellence.
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