Africa-Press – Eswatini. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has pledged to harness the spirit of endurance displayed at the 7th edition of the Mbabane Marathon to drive the transformation of Eswatini’s capital into a smart, resilient and inclusive city.
Held on 22 November 2025 at the Prince of Wales, this year’s marathon drew an impressive 2 400 runners – an increase of 1,000 participants from last year – and marked a historic milestone as the first full marathon hosted in the capital after six consecutive half-marathon editions. The event has now firmly cemented its place as one of the country’s major sporting highlights.
Speaking during the prize-presentation ceremony, Minister for Housing and Urban Development Appolo Maphalala said the determination displayed by athletes on the course mirrors the long-term commitment required to address the challenges associated with rapid urbanisation.
“As a Ministry, we are tackling our own urban marathon. We are meticulously planning for a future Mbabane that is smart, resilient, and inclusive. The resilience shown by our athletes today is the same resilience we require to overcome the challenges of rapid urbanisation and deliver a thriving capital for all Emaswati,” he said.
Maphalala applauded the winners for their outstanding performances, emphasising that their success was the result of diligence and sacrifice rather than luck. “The winners we recognise today did not succeed by chance. Their victory is the result of months of planning, rigorous training, sacrifice, and the resilience to push past the moment they thought they had nothing left to give,” he told the crowd.
He further praised every participant who completed the race, noting that crossing the finish line itself symbolised courage and determination. “You are also a winner. You showed up, you persisted, and you conquered the challenge. That spirit of perseverance is what builds great nations,” he added.
The Minister said the athletes had demonstrated values that define the Kingdom of Eswatini. “You have filled the streets of our capital with discipline, determination, and the very best of the Eswatini spirit, and for that I commend you,” he remarked.
Maphalala also extended heartfelt appreciation to the sponsors for their crucial role in elevating the event. He acknowledged MTN Fintech, Eswatini Housing Board, Hilton Garden, Lidwala Insurance, as well as all water-station partners, noting that their support extended beyond financial contributions. “Not only did you sponsor the marathon, you also joined the organising committee to deliver this excellent race,” he said.
The Minister praised the Mbabane Municipality and its partners for successfully delivering the city’s inaugural full marathon and for their ongoing commitment to promoting health, wellness and urban vibrancy. He highlighted the event as an example of how partnerships can strengthen communities and contribute to national development.
As he concluded, Maphalala encouraged the nation to emulate the perseverance displayed by the runners and apply it towards building a better capital city. “Let us take the energy and determination from this successful day and channel it into building the sustainable, healthy, and beautiful Mbabane we all deserve,” he urged.
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