BY MBONO MDLULI
MTFONGWANENI– Mtfongwaneni Member of Parliament, Nathie Mdockies Hlophe, has congratulated the winners of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recruitment race held at Mtfongwaneni Inkhundla centre.
The race, which formed part of the army’s recruitment process, followed a call made by His Majesty King Mswati III during Army Day celebrations in March this year. It attracted scores of hopefuls vying for a place in the UEDF.
Emerging victorious in the men’s category was Manqoba Sangweni, with Ntsika Shongwe finishing in second place. In the women’s division, Zodwa Mkhatshwa claimed the top spot.
Addressing the participants, MP Hlophe extended heartfelt congratulations to the winners, wishing them success as they advanced to the next stages of recruitment, including the rigorous vetting and medical examinations. He expressed confidence that the winners would excel and go on to proudly serve the nation as members of the UEDF.
“I have no doubt that you will make it through the next stages,” Hlophe said, urging the successful candidates to take care of their health and maintain focus as they prepared for military service.
For those who did not make the cut, Hlophe offered words of encouragement, stressing that their journey was not over. He encouraged them to seek guidance at the Inkhundla centre on how to access government funds for business ventures.
“Not everything is lost,” he said. “There are opportunities to start income-generating projects. I know many of you may be confused about what to do next, but there are ways to ensure you can still provide for your families.”
The event was well attended by community members, who applauded the spirit of determination shown by the youth. The recruitment race has not only created a pathway for aspiring soldiers but has also reignited discussions around entrepreneurship as an alternative path for those not absorbed into the army.
