Africa-Press – Eswatini. A record of 2 400 runners lined up for the 7th edition of the Mbabane Marathon on 22 November 2025, smashing last year’s participation by 1 000 athletes.
The event attracted runners from across Eswatini and neighbouring countries, highlighting its growing regional appeal and the nation’s love for long-distance running.
The race drew several dignitaries, including the Honourable Ministers of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Muzi Bongani Nzima, Minister of Housing and Urban Development Apollo Maphalala, and Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, who also serves as Mbabane West Member of Parliament. Mbabane East Member of Parliament Hon Welcome Dlamini, Mayors and CEOs from other towns were also present, showing strong support for the event.
“This event marks a celebration not only of the athl[etes] but of the unity, resilience and partnerships. I also express deep appreciation to partners more especially MTN Fintech and this mark symbol of what unity can Archive,” said Mbabane Mayor Thulani Mkhontfo.
Sponsored by MTN MoMo, the marathon featured the 42KM full marathon for the first time, alongside 21KM, 10KM and 5KM races, giving runners of all levels a chance to compete.
South Africa’s Bonginkosi Mavuso claimed first place in the 42KM with 2:37:53, narrowly beating Ntokozo Nkonyane (2:38:13) and taking home E20 000. In the women’s 42KM race, Kenya’s Rosina Kiboino won in 3:23:37, followed by Nomvula Sithole (3:30:48) and Nelsiwe Magongo (3:50:01).
In the 21KM women’s category, Thobile Ngwenyama took first place, while 18-year-old Sanelisiwe Mphaphu, a Form 5 student at Manzini Central High School, continued her winning streak with 3rd place, outrunning some of the nation’s top young athletes.
Marathon routes:
42KM – The Ultimate Endurance Test:
The 42-kilometre marathon, the crown jewel of the event, began at Prince of Wales and snaked its way through key landmarks including CTA, the Taiwan Embassy, Mvakwelitje, Mahwalala Zone 5, the Landfill, Mpolonjeni, Nkoyoyo, Makholokholo, Mbangweni, Thembelihle, Eveni Sports Ground, Sandla, Selection Park, 35, Checkers, Mbabane Clinic, Cabinet Offices, Extension 3, PTS, Malunge, before returning to the starting point at Prince of Wales. Reporters on the ground captured the endurance, strategy, and determination of participants as they navigated both urban and suburban terrain.
21KM – The Half Marathon Challenge:
The 21-kilometre route offered a mix of urban and semi-urban tracks, starting from Prince of Wales and passing through Malunge, Sifundzani High, Dalriach East, Thembelihle, Woodlands, Mbangweni, Sidvwashini, Qobonga, ECOT, Sandla, Selection Park, 35, Checkers, Mbabane Clinic, Cabinet Offices, Extension 3, PTS, Malunge, and ending back at Prince of Wales. This category provided reporters with opportunities for human-interest stories, capturing mid-distance athletes pushing their limits while engaging with the community along the route.
10KM – The Community Dash:
The 10-kilometre race began at Prince of Wales and traversed Malunge, Sifundzani High, Dalriach East, Woodlands, Thembelihle, Eveni Sports Ground, Sandla, Selection Park, St Marks Primary, and concluded at Prince of Wales. Journalists highlighted emerging local talent, fitness enthusiasts, and families participating, creating relatable narratives that resonated with readers and viewers alike.
5KM – Fun Run and Inclusion for All:
The 5-kilometre route, designed for accessibility and inclusion, started at Prince of Wales and ran through Malunge Traffic Circle, St Mark’s Primary, Sandla, Selection Park, St Marks High, Coronation Park, before returning to Prince of Wales. Coverage focused on community engagement, participatory sports, and athletes with disabilities, emphasising the inclusive spirit of the 7th Mbabane Marathon
The Acting MTN CEO Jerry Soko said “We are proud to support this marathon, which brings together thousands of participants from all over. We also remind everyone to stay safe with their MTN MoMo PINs during the festive season.”
Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Apollo Maphalala, added:“The large turnout reflects not just the growth of this marathon, but also the dedication, discipline, and resilience of all participants.”
The 7th Mbabane Marathon proved to be more than a race; it was a celebration of fitness, community and national pride, bringing thousands together in the spirit of sport.
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