Africa-Press – Eswatini. The 2026 edition of the Imbube Marathon is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 17 October. The announcement was made by Minister of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Hon. Bongani Nzima on Monday, 27 April 2026 at Happy Valley Hotel during the official launch of the sporting event by Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF).
Minister Nzima spoke on behalf of Minister of Labour and Social Security Hon. Phila Buthelezi, who was attending other national assignments.
The Ministry of Labour and Social Security is the parent ministry of ENPF, which owns and organises the marathon.
Promoting National Wellness
In remarks delivered at the launch, Minister Nzima said the event was being officially launched with pride as the eighth edition of the Imbube Marathon.
He said this year’s race marked more than another sporting event, as it coincided with the Ruby Jubilee celebrations of the Kingdom of Eswatini.
The minister noted that the greatest asset of any nation was its workforce, but said a workforce could only be as strong as its health.
He said the marathon played an important national role in promoting a culture of wellness and healthy living across the country.
By encouraging thousands of emaSwati to participate, he said the race helped combat the growing challenge of non-communicable diseases.
He added that it also promoted a society that was more energetic, disciplined and productive.
Minister Nzima said national development and national fitness went hand in hand as the country advanced towards its Sovereign Vision.
Under Royal Patronage
He said the race continued to flourish under the patronage of His Majesty King Mswati III.
According to the minister, the King’s vision for a first-world Eswatini included hosting world-class events that unite the nation.
He described the Imbube Marathon as the “People’s Race”, where chief executives, factory workers, persons living with disabilities, students and retirees all shared the same road, determination and finish line.
Minister Nzima urged every citizen and family to support the initiative and help make this year’s edition the biggest and most impactful in the event’s history.
Tourism And Sponsorship Opportunities
He said the marathon was not only about running, but also a platform to showcase Eswatini’s culture, scenic landscapes and national potential.
Sponsors from different sectors were invited to partner with organisers through financial support, goods or services.
He said such partnerships would help boost tourism, support local communities and highlight Eswatini’s innovation and hospitality.
ENPF, as organisers, would continue engaging potential sponsors to maximise the event’s success and positive impact.
Race Categories Confirmed
The race categories will remain open and inclusive, featuring a 3.3km event for the elderly aged 60 years and above, as well as persons living with disabilities.
There will also be 10km, 21km and 42km races.
All races will start and finish at Somhlolo National Stadium.
Minister Nzima then officially declared that the eighth edition of the Imbube Marathon would be held on 17 October 2026.
Dignitaries Present
Among those present were Ministry of Labour and Social Security Principal Secretary (PS) Makhosini Mndawe, Ministry of Sports, Culture and Youth Affairs Under Secretary (US) Mzwandile Mthethwa, ENPF Chief Executive Officer Futhie Tembe and Athletics Eswatini President Zakhele Dlamini.
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