BY THEMBA ZWANE
MBABANE– MTN Fintech Eswatini, through its MoMo platform, has injected E276 000 towards the successful hosting of the 8th edition of the Mbabane Marathon, reinforcing its commitment to sport, financial inclusion and community development.
The contribution was announced by MTN Fintech CEO Sam Shongwe during the official launch of the 2026 Mbabane Marathon at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Shongwe said MTN Fintech was proud to continue supporting the marathon, marking its third consecutive year as a partner of the event.
“On behalf of MTN Fintech, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Municipal Council of Mbabane and all stakeholders who continue to make this event a success,” Shongwe said.
He said the company’s support was driven by its commitment to initiatives that bring people together, promote healthy living and showcase the spirit of Eswatini’s capital city.
“At MTN Fintech, we are passionate about creating opportunities that connect people and empower communities. Our support for the Mbabane Marathon reflects our commitment to financial inclusion, innovation, and sustainable community development,” he said.
Shongwe also highlighted the remarkable growth of the marathon, noting that participation had increased from 1 500 runners in 2024 to 2 400 runners in 2025.
He said the event had developed beyond being merely a sporting competition and had become a platform that brought together individuals, businesses and communities around a shared vision of progress and excellence.
“We are confident that the 2026 edition will set an even higher benchmark,” Shongwe said.
Beyond its financial contribution to the marathon, MTN Fintech is partnering with the Mbabane Municipality to advance digital and financial inclusion within the city.
Shongwe said the company was onboarding market vendors and small businesses onto the MoMo platform, enabling merchants to accept Pay with MoMo and giving customers access to secure, convenient and cashless payment options.
“Our vision is simple: to make digital payments accessible everywhere, allowing customers to transact conveniently without carrying cash while enabling businesses to manage their finances more effectively and grow sustainably,” he said.
The MoMo platform is also integrated into the Mbabane Marathon registration process.
According to Shongwe, participants can register online, select their preferred race category and complete their registration payments securely using their MoMo wallets.
He described this as another example of how technology could simplify everyday experiences for emaSwati.
Shongwe said the E276 000 contribution reflected MTN Fintech’s belief in initiatives that inspire people, strengthen communities and bring practical digital solutions closer to the people.
“We firmly believe that when local businesses thrive, communities prosper. And when people have access to secure and accessible financial services, they are empowered to achieve more, both on and off the race course,” he said.
The MTN Fintech CEO commended the Municipal Council of Mbabane, the organising committee, sponsors, partners and volunteers for their efforts in building the marathon into one of the country’s most anticipated sporting events.
He also encouraged participants preparing for race day, praising their determination and discipline.
The 2026 Mbabane Marathon is scheduled to take place on November 21, 2026.
Shongwe said MTN Fintech looked forward to welcoming runners and supporters to the starting line for what he described as another memorable edition of the marathon.
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