Africa-Press – Eswatini. Nsingizini Hotspurs Ladies players Neliswa Ngcamphalala and Ncedo Gamedze stole the spotlight at the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) recruitment exercise held at Lobamba Inkhundla and Lobamba Lomdzala Inkhundla on November 27, 2025.
Neliswa Ngcamphalala emerged as the overall winner at Lobamba Inkhundla in the 3.2km race, while her teammate Ncedo Gamedze finished in second place and is currently on standby.
The event, which drew participants from the different communities that belong to Lobamba Inkhundla, was led by the Army recruitment team under Brigadier General Thabo Luhlanga. It aimed to select the most physically and mentally prepared candidates for the next phase of the army recruitment process.
“Winning did not come by chance,” said Ngcamphalala. “My training and athletic background carried me straight to the front of the pack. I am grateful for this opportunity.”
Ncedo Gamedze, a defender for Nsingizini, shared her excitement at finishing second. “I am proud of our performance,” she said. “This experience has been incredible, and I am ready for what comes next.”
Delisile Mabuza, a club branch official and also in the executive committee of Nsingizini Hotspurs confirmed that both players represent Nsingizini Hotspurs Ladies. “We are very proud of Neliswa and Ncedo for their achievements,” Mabuza said. “As a team, we wish them the best of luck as they proceed to the next stages of the recruitment process.”
In the male category, Thando Shongwe, 30, from Ezulwini, clinched first place. Shongwe, who has been training as an athlete since 2022, said, “The King’s NKWE call fuelled my drive, and I powered through.” His coach, Mefika Dlamini, highlighted the disciplined training and rigorous drills that helped Shongwe secure the top spot.
Sifiso “Mancubeni” Ginindza, 28, of Lobamba, came in second, describing his journey as challenging but rewarding. “I spent the past year living emalawini, rubbing shoulders with other hopeful warriors and toughening up for this moment,” he said. “I thank God for the strength to push through the race.”
Other notable winners included Phiwa Bhembe (24) of RFG United, who clinched first place in the males category at Lobamba Lomdzala Inkhundla.
Dudu Simelane (35) from Malkerns, who emerged as the first-place winner in the ladies category at the UEDF recruitment exercise. Simelane expressed her joy, saying, “This day will change the story of my life and allow me to provide for my family. I also thank my child for supporting me; they are an athlete too and will be competing in Zimbabwe soon.”
Mpendulo Zikalala (32), an employee at CJD Engineering, secured second place, revealing that he trained before and after work to prepare himself for this day. “I hope for success in the upcoming stages,” he said. “I believe it will positively change my situation at home.”
The UEDF recruitment exercise at Lobamba Inkhundla highlighted determination, discipline, and athletic excellence, with participants showcasing their dedication and readiness to serve.
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